As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) moves closer to its National Convention scheduled for Sunday in Abuja, internal divisions within the party have deepened, particularly over whether to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
The faction led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki has firmly rejected any possibility of backing Tinubu’s re-election bid, insisting that the PDP must remain a credible opposition party. This position directly contrasts with the camp aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which has shown support for the President.
The disagreement over Tinubu’s candidacy has become one of the major issues fueling the party’s ongoing leadership crisis, effectively splitting the PDP into two opposing blocs. While the Turaki group, supported by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, maintains a firm stance against endorsing Tinubu, Wike’s faction continues to push a different agenda as preparations for the convention progress.
Opposition Must Remain Independent — Ememobong
Factional National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, has described any move by the PDP to support a candidate from another political party as inappropriate and damaging to democratic principles.
Speaking during a televised interview, Ememobong stated that it would be unjust for an opposition party to endorse the presidential candidate of a rival party, stressing that such a move would undermine the PDP’s role in Nigeria’s democracy.
He explained that ongoing reconciliation efforts within the party are focused on resolving the prolonged leadership crisis and may lead to the withdrawal of pending legal disputes. According to him, key stakeholders, including Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde, are actively supporting moves to reduce tensions and restore unity.
Ememobong also warned against the risks of a weakened opposition, noting that a political environment dominated by a single party would be unhealthy for Nigeria’s democratic system. He emphasized that any peace agreement must align with the PDP constitution, particularly its requirement to field candidates for all elective positions.
Wike Camp Insists on Presidential Primaries
Despite internal disagreements, the faction aligned with Wike has maintained that the PDP will field a presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.
A senior figure within the camp disclosed that after the upcoming convention, the party plans to organize another convention focused on selecting its presidential flagbearer. The process, he said, would involve all aspirants and follow established electoral guidelines.
The source added that preparations for the Abuja convention are already at an advanced stage, with committees working to ensure a smooth exercise and strong participation from party members nationwide.
Party Elders Push for Unity and Survival
Prominent party leaders, including PDP chieftain Olabode George and former Senate President Bukola Saraki, have reaffirmed their commitment to reconciliation, insisting that the crisis will not destroy the party.
George acknowledged that internal conflicts are often part of political evolution but warned against allowing personal ambition to override collective interests. He stressed that no individual is bigger than the party and cautioned against any attempt to weaken Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.
He also raised concerns about the dangers of a one-party system, describing such a scenario as a threat to national stability and democratic growth.
Saraki, on his part, said the immediate priority is to stabilise the PDP and ensure it remains a viable platform for aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections. He emphasized the importance of conducting a credible convention recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that this would reinforce confidence in the party’s structure.
Kwara PDP Leaders Back Convention Participation
In Kwara State, PDP leaders and stakeholders have expressed readiness to participate fully in the Abuja convention. The decision was reached during an emergency meeting in Ilorin, where members agreed that the outcome of the convention would determine the party’s future direction in the state.
They reaffirmed confidence in the PDP’s popularity and relevance, describing it as a credible platform with strong grassroots support.
Experts Warn of Economic Risks Amid Global Tensions
Meanwhile, economic analysts and public affairs commentators have raised concerns over the impact of rising global tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran on Nigeria’s economy.
They noted that while higher global oil prices may increase government revenue, the resulting rise in fuel and food costs poses serious challenges for citizens. Experts recommended strategic measures such as strengthening domestic refining capacity, particularly through the Dangote Refinery, implementing targeted subsidies, and diversifying the economy beyond crude oil dependence.
Other suggested interventions include improving agricultural security, supporting local manufacturing, managing foreign reserves efficiently, and introducing policies to cushion the effects of inflation on vulnerable populations.
Analysts stressed that a balanced approach—leveraging short-term gains from oil revenue while investing in long-term economic resilience—would be crucial in navigating the current global uncertainty.
PDP Crisis Deepens as Factions Clash Over Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election, Reconciliation Efforts Intensify Ahead of Convention
