By John Umeh
The lingering crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a new turn as former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, formally announced his withdrawal from the party’s reconciliation process. In a scathing critique delivered during a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday, Wike accused Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of sabotaging the peace efforts and deepening the party’s internal divisions.
Wike, who has been a central figure in the PDP’s internal power struggle since the 2022 presidential primaries, described the reconciliation process as “a charade orchestrated to mask deeper betrayal within the party.” He alleged that Makinde, a key member of the PDP Governors’ Forum and once considered an ally, had acted in bad faith by siding with “elements who seek to undermine unity and democratic values within the party.”
“I can no longer be part of a process that pretends to seek peace while some are clearly working to destroy what little trust is left,” Wike stated. “Governor Makinde has not only failed to stand by the truth, but he has also chosen personal ambition over party cohesion.”
A Long-Standing Rift
The friction between Wike and other high-profile PDP figures, including the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar, has been well documented. The fallout from the primaries led to the formation of the G5 — a group of five PDP governors, including Wike and Makinde — who opposed Atiku’s candidacy and called for the resignation of then-party chairman Iyorchia Ayu to balance North-South representation in the party’s leadership.
While the G5 initially presented a united front, cracks began to appear following the general elections. Insiders revealed that personal political interests and disagreements over the direction of the party created growing disillusionment among the group. Wike’s decision to accept a ministerial appointment under President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was seen by many in the PDP as a betrayal, further straining his relationship with other party stalwarts.
Despite the backlash, Wike maintained that his commitment to good governance transcends party lines. However, his involvement in the PDP’s reconciliation efforts remained contentious, particularly as he continued to wield considerable influence over some party structures and stakeholders in the South-South.
Makinde Responds
In a swift response to Wike’s claims, Governor Seyi Makinde dismissed the accusations as “misleading and regrettable.” Speaking through his media aide, Taiwo Adisa, Makinde reiterated his loyalty to the PDP and insisted that his actions were driven by a desire to see the party restored to its former strength.
“Governor Makinde remains committed to the ideals of the PDP and to the stability of democratic institutions in Nigeria,” Adisa said. “It is unfortunate that Mr. Wike has chosen to walk away at a time when reconciliation is needed the most.”
Makinde also suggested that Wike’s dual political roles — as a PDP member and a minister in the APC-led government — may have compromised his sincerity in the peace process. “You cannot serve two masters and expect to be trusted in matters of party loyalty,” he added.
Implications for the PDP
Wike’s departure from the reconciliation table is likely to complicate the PDP’s efforts to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections. Analysts say the party must confront its internal contradictions if it hopes to present a credible alternative to the ruling APC.
Political commentator and public affairs analyst, Dr. Nkem Eze, noted that the PDP’s survival hinges on the ability of its leaders to prioritize the party’s future over personal grievances.
“The exit of someone as influential as Wike from the reconciliation process sends a strong message,” Eze said. “But it also presents an opportunity for the PDP to define a clearer path forward, with or without those who are no longer aligned with its values.”
As the dust settles, the PDP must now decide whether to attempt to woo Wike back into the fold or move on without him. Either way, the recent developments underscore the urgent need for unity and clarity within the opposition party as it navigates an increasingly complex political landscape.
