The ongoing battle within the Wike camp threatens the future of PDP

Recently, the much-anticipated 98th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, took place in Abuja.

This gathering was attended by notable party leaders such as former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, state governors, and other prominent figures.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the NEC endorsed the Amb. Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, allowing him to continue in his role until the next NEC meeting.

Debo Ologunagba, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, conveyed the NEC’s resolution to address the party leadership issue in August and emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among party members.

Furthermore, the meeting approved the reconstitution of the Party Disciplinary and Reconciliation Committees to ensure the party’s stability.

Despite tensions within the party, the endorsement of Damagum as the acting National Chairman suggested that Wike’s influence in the leadership crisis persists.

Prior to the NEC meeting, discussions revolved around whether Damagum should retain his position or be replaced, reigniting tensions between the Atiku and Wike factions.

Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the All Progressives Congress (APC), remains a contentious figure within the PDP.

According to Nduka Odo, a Public Affairs Analyst, the PDP’s challenges stem from internal disarray rather than Wike’s strength. Odo emphasized the party’s loss of support and the need for internal reconciliation to prevent further decline.

Looking ahead, Odo warned that unless the PDP addresses its internal issues and reconnects with its base, it risks fading away nationally in upcoming election cycles.

Additionally, a press statement from the PDP highlighted efforts to resolve the caretaker committee issue in Rivers State through consultation and political solutions.

On a different note, APC chieftain Osita Okechukwu criticized the PDP for failing to address its internal challenges and engaging in blame games instead of introspection.

Okechukwu highlighted the need for the PDP to focus on internal reforms and move beyond divisive tactics to regain credibility as the main opposition party.

He underscored the detrimental impact of past decisions by the PDP, urging the party to learn from its mistakes and prioritize national interests over individual ambitions.