Two prominent governors from Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have openly rejected the recent expulsion of key party figures including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and former Ekiti state governor Ayodele Fayose.
Northern Governors Stand Against Party Decision
The motion for expulsion was moved during the PDP's national convention in Ibadan, Oyo state capital, by former national vice chairman Olabode George and supported by Bauchi state PDP chairman Samaila Burga. However, Governors Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State have distanced themselves from this controversial decision.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, through his director of press and public affairs Gyang Bere, stated that the expulsion motion was never discussed at either the PDP Governors' Forum or the party's National Executive Committee meeting. The north-central governor emphasized that such action could destabilize the party at a time when unity is most needed.
Concerns Over Party Polarization
Both governors expressed serious concerns that the expulsion of prominent members like Wike and Fayose would further divide the party rather than promote reconciliation. Governor Mutfwang described the move as counter-productive to ongoing efforts to stabilize the PDP.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the northeast state echoed these sentiments, stating he strongly believes the decision does not serve the PDP's best interests. He reiterated his commitment to remaining a faithful party member while rejecting anything that could polarize the organization further.
Complete List of Affected Members
The expulsion list includes several high-profile PDP members beyond Wike and Fayose. Others suspended include former national secretary Samuel Anyanwu, national legal adviser Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN), and several party officials across different states.
Governor Fintiri called for stakeholders to focus on healing internal wounds, stating that "peace and reconciliation are the only ways forward for our great party." He pledged to support only efforts that promote peace, stability, and progress within the PDP as the party positions itself for future electoral contests.
The governors' opposition highlights deepening divisions within Nigeria's main opposition party as it navigates internal conflicts while preparing for the 2027 general elections.
