The crisis within Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), appears far from over, as the party has now confirmed it is considering expelling the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over what it describes as “anti-party activities.”
Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, revealed during an interview on Arise News that a committee is already reviewing petitions against Wike and other party members whose actions have reportedly undermined the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, has remained a controversial figure in Nigerian politics, especially since he openly supported the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 general elections while still claiming membership in the PDP. His appointment as FCT Minister by President Bola Tinubu further strained his relationship with the PDP leadership.
“If Wike is not going to be to the advantage of the PDP, he can bid the PDP farewell,” Abdullahi said. “Certainly, we won’t allow any individual to hold the party to ransom.”
The party’s rhetoric reflects a growing push to assert internal discipline ahead of the 2027 elections, but analysts warn that any move to expel Wike could further fracture the PDP, particularly in the South-South region where Wike still commands significant influence.
While the committee reviewing the petitions has not yet concluded its work, Abdullahi’s comments suggest that the party leadership may be preparing the ground for a decisive break.
“We’ve received several petitions regarding anti-party activities,” he said. “Wike is said to be among those named, and once the committee submits its recommendations, there’ll be no stopping us from taking action.”
However, expelling Wike is not without risk. His grassroots network and strong political presence in Rivers State make him a formidable player who could either align formally with the APC or mobilize support for a third force. Such a scenario could further weaken the PDP’s standing as it struggles to regain its footing after losing the presidency in 2023.
Political observers say the PDP is at a crossroads: tolerate internal dissent in the name of inclusivity, or enforce discipline at the risk of losing key power brokers. Either decision could shape the party’s trajectory in the coming years.
For now, the PDP insists it is focused on internal reform and reasserting its identity as a credible opposition force. Whether it can do that while shedding heavyweight figures like Wike remains to be seen.