PDP Crisis: Wike, G5 Governors, Stakeholders Hold Crucial Meeting to Save Party
Abuja, Nigeria – June 9, 2025 – In a bid to address the escalating internal crisis threatening the unity of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), concerned stakeholders of the main opposition party, led by the G5 Governors, convened a high-stakes meeting at the Life Camp residence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The gathering, which included prominent PDP leaders and chieftains from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT, aimed to resolve the contentious dispute surrounding the office of the National Secretary and chart a path to stabilize the party.
The meeting saw the attendance of all G5 Governors—comprising Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Samuel Ortom (Benue), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia)—with the notable exception of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. The absence of Makinde, a key figure in the G5, has sparked speculation about potential divisions within the group, though no official reason for his non-attendance was disclosed.
Presiding over the meeting, Wike, a former Rivers State governor and influential PDP figure, delivered a passionate address, warning against those he described as “vampires” bent on destroying the party. He emphasized the need for decisive action to safeguard the PDP’s future, particularly in light of the ongoing leadership tussle over the National Secretary position.
At the heart of the crisis is the dispute over the legitimacy of Sam Anyanwu as the PDP National Secretary. Wike, addressing the gathered stakeholders, argued that the Supreme Court recognizes Anyanwu as the authentic holder of the office. He urged those pushing for Anyanwu’s removal to exercise patience and wait for the party’s national convention, scheduled later in 2025, where such matters can be democratically resolved. “The Supreme Court has made its position clear on the National Secretary. Those who want to pull down the party must wait for the convention,” Wike reportedly told the attendees.
The G5 Governors, a powerful faction within the PDP known for their vocal criticism of the party’s leadership during the 2023 election cycle, have been central to the PDP’s internal dynamics. Their influence stems from their collective push for fairness and equity in the party’s leadership structure, particularly in the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election. The current meeting underscores their continued relevance in shaping the PDP’s direction as the party grapples with post-election challenges and prepares for future electoral battles.
The PDP has faced significant internal strife since its loss in the 2023 presidential election, with factions clashing over leadership roles, zoning arrangements, and the party’s strategic direction. The dispute over the National Secretary’s office is seen as a flashpoint that could either deepen the party’s divisions or provide an opportunity for reconciliation and reform.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed hope that the deliberations would yield a roadmap to strengthen the PDP and reposition it as a formidable opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the absence of Governor Makinde and the underlying tensions within the party suggest that achieving unity may require more than a single meeting.
As discussions continue, the outcomes of this crucial gathering are expected to have far-reaching implications for the PDP’s internal cohesion and its ability to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in future elections. For real-time updates on the meeting’s outcomes or related developments, further details can be sourced from recent posts on X or credible news outlets if needed.
