Political commentator Chibuzor Okereke has challenged the constitutionality of demands made by factions loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Okereke said it is unconstitutional for a single individual or a limited group, such as the G-5 coalition, to impose conditions on the party for its national convention or internal processes.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time program, Okereke described the ongoing crisis in the PDP as a fierce battle for control and political power within the party. He pointed out that the so-called conditions—like demands for the recognition of specific party officers or the validation of some local congresses—are tactical moves by Wike’s camp to assert dominance inside the party.
“For the party to keep going to the level that this G-5 group is now saying things like ‘You have to recognize the Vice Chairman South, you have to accept certain congresses,’ shows that the party is trying to use its constitutional means to overcome these challenges,” Okereke stated.
Okereke emphasized that while the party continues to grapple with factionalism, its internal mechanisms and constitution should guide resolutions, not unilateral directives from any section of the party. He warned that allowing a faction to dictate terms outside constitutional frameworks undermines party unity and democratic governance within the PDP.
The current tussle between Governor Seyi Makinde’s faction and Wike’s group has brought to the fore deep divisions regarding zoning arrangements, conduct of congresses in various states, and leadership positions ahead of the national convention scheduled for November in Ibadan, Oyo State.
While Wike’s faction insists on recognition of its congresses and leadership structures as a prerequisite for the convention, Okereke and supporters of the Makinde-led faction argue that these demands could invalidate the convention and disenfranchise legitimate party members.
With the PDP’s 2027 general election prospects hanging in the balance, observers worry that unresolved factional crises could weaken the party’s chances if not settled constitutionally and amicably.
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