By LUCY CHINDABA
The leading opposition party in Nigeria, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been navigating murky waters for some time, and the outcome of the 2023 general elections worsened its internal crisis.
The party has since been reeling from deep internal turmoil. Intense power struggles and legal battles disrupted plans for its national convention, with court rulings halting key processes. Factionalism, particularly between influential figures like Wike and Makinde, further exposed leadership rifts. Meanwhile, rising defections to the ruling APC are sapping its strength, which the PDP has attributed to coercion and political sabotage. These crises have threatened party unity and credibility, undermining its ability to position itself as a strong and cohesive alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Legal battles surrounding the convention
The disputes over court rulings concerning the PDP convention centred on constitutional interpretation, jurisdiction and the internal governance of political parties. One court argued that it had jurisdiction to halt the convention, citing the need for political parties to comply with the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act and their internal constitutions. Allegations of procedural breaches—such as improper notice, exclusion of stakeholders and unresolved leadership disputes—were deemed justiciable. The court emphasised that internal party democracy is enforceable by law and that injunctions could prevent irreversible political consequences.
Conversely, a second court held that judicial interference in ongoing party processes was inappropriate, arguing that political parties retained autonomy in internal administration. It considered the matter non-justiciable, stressing that only national executive organs could validate conventions and that legal challenges should follow, not precede, such events. The court warned that conflicting orders could threaten judicial stability and democratic functioning.
The PDP convention, its aftermath
The Ibadan PDP convention focused on reaffirming party unity, restructuring leadership and setting a clear direction ahead of upcoming elections. Delegates from across the country gathered to elect new national officers, resolve lingering factional disputes and strengthen internal democracy. The event highlighted rebuilding public confidence, improving cohesion, and presenting a stronger opposition stance. Key speeches called for discipline, loyalty, and renewed commitment to the party’s ideals.
However, some members boycotted the convention in protest over internal disagreements and unresolved leadership disputes. Their absence highlighted divisions within the party, particularly over zoning, candidate selection, and compliance with court orders. While the convention proceeded as planned, the non-participation of key stakeholders underscored the need for reconciliation, transparent decision-making, and stronger internal democracy.
After the convention, the PDP faces the critical and arduous task of consolidating its internal structures and unifying competing factions. Next steps include implementing resolutions from the convention, reconciling aggrieved members, developing a strategic roadmap for elections, refreshing policy positions, strengthening grassroots mobilisation, and enhancing communication to rebuild public confidence. Effective leadership selection, outreach to key stakeholders, and addressing legal or organisational disputes will be essential.
Stakeholders expect the PDP to present a credible policy agenda, reconcile warring factions, improve youth and women engagement, and produce broadly accepted candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ultimately, the party’s ability to convert convention momentum into sustained political relevance will determine its electoral prospects.