PDP Power Struggle Deepens as Rival Factions Plan Parallel Meetings in Abuja

As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) braces for its critical 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting today, internal dicord has erupted into open confrontation, with rival factions within the party plotting separate NEC and National Caucus meetings in Abuja. The divisions have not only fractured the party’s leadership but also raised serious questions about the unity and direction of Nigeria’s main opposition party.

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PDP in Precarious Position Amidst NEC Meeting Clash

Sources from within the PDP, who spoke under anonymity, revealed to The Punch that factions loyal to different political heavyweights have intensified mobilization efforts to either participate in or derail the officially scheduled NEC meeting. The divisions center on who controls the party’s machinery and the legitimacy of recent internal decisions.

One faction, led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and backed by embattled National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, argues that the NEC should be replaced with an “expanded National Caucus” meeting. This camp includes National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), and Vice Chairman (North West) Senator Bello Gwarzo. They convened on Sunday afternoon at Wadata Plaza to solidify their stance and resist what they deem an imposition by opposing forces.

However, a stronger counter-faction, aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has doubled down on its insistence that the 100th NEC meeting must proceed today, June 30, 2025. This camp, which includes eleven National Working Committee (NWC) members and several southern governors like Peter Mbah (Enugu), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun), maintains that the meeting is both constitutional and essential for the party’s survival.

They also oppose Anyanwu’s return as National Secretary, arguing that his position was compromised during recent intra-party developments. This group has already made logistical preparations, including document printing and venue arrangements, for what they insist is the legitimate NEC meeting.

One insider from the Makinde-aligned group stressed, “This is not just another meeting; it’s a battle for the survival of PDP. The 99th NEC held on May 27 clearly scheduled today’s gathering. No one, not even the acting chairman, can alter that decision.”

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The rival faction, reportedly aligned with former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike, also includes governors Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Kefas Agbu (Taraba), Adamu Fintiri (Adamawa), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi). They are calling for a postponement of the NEC meeting, arguing for a more inclusive and “harmonized” approach to resolving the party’s growing schism.

Yet, their argument holds little water in the face of majority opposition within the NWC. A significant eleven out of eighteen NWC members have rejected the suggestion to cancel or reformat the NEC meeting. According to them, adherence to the party constitution is non-negotiable.

Arapaja Reaffirms Legitimacy of NEC Schedule

To quash the swirling uncertainty, PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, issued a formal statement on Sunday. Speaking on behalf of the NWC, Arapaja reaffirmed that the 100th NEC meeting and the forthcoming National Convention (slated for August 28–30) will proceed as scheduled.

“There is no provision for a ‘Special Expanded National Caucus’ in our party’s constitution,” Arapaja emphasized. “The only recognized and binding schedule is the one approved at the 99th NEC. No organ, officer, or group has the authority to alter it.”

He cited Section 31(3) of the PDP Constitution (2017 amendment) to support his claim that the NEC meeting date is legally binding on all party members and entities. He added that attempts to circulate alternate schedules or formats for the meeting are both unconstitutional and misleading.

Constitutional Clarity Versus Political Reality

Section 30 of the PDP Constitution clearly defines the composition and function of the National Caucus without any provision for expansion. Arapaja pointedly noted that those pushing for an expanded version are acting outside the bounds of party rules and should be disregarded.

While the Arapaja camp champions the rule of law and constitutional governance, critics argue that the power struggle is more about influence and political positioning ahead of the 2027 elections than adherence to due process.

What Lies Ahead for the PDP?

The real test for the PDP is not just whether today’s NEC meeting will take place as planned, but whether it can help restore confidence in the party’s unity. With Nigeria’s next general election drawing closer, the inability of the PDP to present a united front could seriously damage its chances against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

With the NEC meeting slated to begin today at Wadata Plaza, Abuja, the eyes of political analysts and party loyalists are firmly fixed on the outcome. Will today mark a turning point toward reconciliation—or signal a deeper descent into factional warfare?

Only time will tell if the PDP can navigate this internal turbulence or if the split factions will lead to further fragmentation of the party’s national appeal.