By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The political turmoil within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the controversial role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, continues to fuel nationwide debate. Following the publication of the article “Wike: PDP Bites the Bullet” by Kosofe Post, analysts and political commentators have offered sharp assessments of a party they believe is fighting for survival.
Observers described Wike as central to the PDP’s current troubles, accusing him of tightening his grip on the party in ways that have left it “gasping for air.” President of the Ta’awun Humanitarian Forum, Taiwo Lasisi, said Wike’s influence reflects the complex nature of Nigerian politics, alleging that the former Rivers State governor has been “holding the PDP at the jugular.”
Lasisi argued that Wike’s actions—serving in the APC-led government while exerting influence within the PDP—are rooted in his grievances over losing the party’s 2022 presidential ticket. He acknowledged Wike’s past contributions, including his financial support and political strength, which helped the party survive difficult moments after 2019. But he questioned how long Wike can sustain “such dual states,” working with the ruling APC while attempting to shape the PDP from outside.
The recent PDP convention in Ibadan, hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, was seen by analysts as a sign of a major internal shift. Makinde, now considered one of the party’s main financiers since Wike “folded up the PDP purse,” is increasingly viewed as the party’s emerging leader. Commentators said the choice of Ibadan for the convention signaled his rising influence.
According to Lasisi, the ongoing power struggle between camps loyal to Wike and those aligned with Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed is less about rescuing the PDP and more about securing leverage ahead of potential alliances with the APC or a new political formation. He described the clashes as the “last battle in PDP” for both sides.
Despite the widespread belief that the PDP is nearing collapse, some commentators reflected on its historical role in Nigeria’s democracy. Political observer Omoba Awofeso Rasheed lamented that the party’s founding leaders would be distressed by its current state, criticising today’s politicians for prioritising elections over national development. He, however, noted that the PDP has shown resilience since 1999, managing three presidents and many states while demonstrating notable internal democracy and administrative strength.
Yet, Rasheed warned that “time factor” may soon catch up with the party, suggesting the PDP could face political extinction by 2026 or 2027 if the current trajectory continues.
The turbulence within the PDP also served as a warning to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Both analysts urged the party to learn from the opposition’s crisis. Rasheed noted that APC’s seeming stability under President Bola Tinubu may only be “postponing the trial,” cautioning that failing to address Nigeria’s political and economic challenges could push the ruling party into a similar state of internal decay.
The analysts agreed that Nigeria’s democracy is at a critical point, and the lessons from the PDP’s crisis must not be ignored by any political actor.