PDP Leadership Crisis Reaches Breaking Point
A prominent human rights lawyer and Peoples Democratic Party governorship aspirant from Oyo State, Chief Niyi Aborisade, has issued a passionate appeal for peace amid escalating tensions within the opposition party. The UK-based legal practitioner specifically addressed Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and former Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike, urging them to de-escalate hostilities that threaten to tear the party apart.
Mutual Expulsions Create Political Chaos
The crisis reached new heights during the party's National Convention held in Ibadan on November 15-16, 2025, where several high-profile members faced expulsion. Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, was among those expelled for alleged anti-party activities. The list also included factional National Chairman Senator Samuel Anyanwu, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, National Legal Adviser Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN), and Chief Dan Orbih.
In a swift retaliatory move, the faction aligned with Wike and Anyanwu announced counter-expulsions targeting Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal, former board of trustees chairman Adolphus Wabara, and deputy national chairman (south) Taofeek Arapaja. This mutual political warfare has created unprecedented tension at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja.
Aborisade Warns of Imminent Collapse
Chief Aborisade described the situation as "advanced confusion" that has snowballed into "a fire of rebellion burning out of control." He expressed grave concern that the continuing rift could prevent the party from fielding candidates in future elections, including the crucial 2025 general elections.
The legal expert emphasized that the escalating hostilities following recent expulsions and counter-expulsions pose an existential threat to the party's survival. He recalled that court orders and counter-court orders had already marred the days leading up to the national convention, indicating deep-rooted structural problems within the party's leadership.
Path to Reconciliation
Aborisade stressed that unity remains the only viable path to restoring stability in Nigeria's main opposition party. "I appeal to all to sheathe their swords. They should call each other and hold a secret meeting to find a solution to the crisis," he stated in his Thursday appeal.
The PDP chieftain urged all warring factions to engage in private dialogue and seek amicable settlement through confidential negotiations. He warned that without immediate intervention, the party risked complete implosion that could diminish its relevance in Nigeria's political landscape for years to come.
The crisis represents one of the most severe internal conflicts in the party's history, coming at a time when strong opposition is crucial for Nigeria's democracy. Political analysts are closely watching how the situation unfolds, with many expressing concern about the potential long-term consequences for Nigeria's political balance.
