The recent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South-South Zonal Congress, held on February 22, 2025, in Calabar, Cross River State, has intensified internal divisions within the party. The congress proceeded despite a Port Harcourt High Court injunction aiming to halt it. Notable attendees included the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke.
Nyesom Wike’s Statement:
Minister Nyesom Wike defended the legitimacy of the Calabar congress, emphasizing the South-South zone’s significance to the PDP. He stated, “The South-South Zone is the strongest zone of the PDP in Nigeria. It has always been and will always be.” Wike criticized the National Working Committee’s (NWC) decision to postpone the congress, asserting that the party’s constitution does not mandate the NWC to conduct zonal congresses. He declared, “I want to assure you that this is the final zonal congress of the South-South Zone; after the election today, no other zonal congress will hold.”
PDP National Working Committee’s (NWC) Statement:
In contrast, the PDP’s NWC distanced itself from the Calabar gathering, declaring it unauthorized. National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba emphasized that the party had postponed the South-South Zonal Congress to allow for broader consultations. He stated, “The PDP states in clear terms that it has not conducted its South-South Zonal Congress, neither is it in any way involved in the said gathering in Calabar.” The NWC urged members, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the media to disregard the event and await an officially sanctioned congress.
Implications for the Party:
This discord between the NWC and regional leaders like Wike underscores ongoing internal challenges within the PDP. The conflicting actions and statements may lead to:
Erosion of Party Unity: Divergent actions can deepen existing factions, weakening the party’s cohesion.
Legal Complications: Proceeding with the congress despite a court injunction could result in legal battles, potentially affecting the party’s operations.
Electoral Consequences: A divided front may diminish voter confidence, impacting the party’s performance in future elections.
Addressing these internal conflicts promptly and effectively is crucial for the PDP to maintain its standing and effectiveness in Nigeria’s political landscape.
