Fresh cracks have emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a faction aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has distanced the party from a recent high-level meeting involving another bloc of its members and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, declared that the engagement between the Taminu Turaki-led faction and the ADC was not authorised by the party’s leadership.
Mohammed emphasized that the PDP had neither held formal nor informal discussions with the ADC or its representatives, urging members and the public to disregard any claims suggesting otherwise.
“Those who participated in the meeting did so in their personal capacities and cannot be said to represent the PDP,” he stated, describing reports of the engagement as baseless and not reflective of the party’s official position.
Turaki Faction Meets ADC Leaders
Earlier on Wednesday, the Turaki-led faction paid a visit to the ADC leadership, headed by former Senate President David Mark, describing the engagement as a solidarity meeting ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The closed-door session reportedly lasted about two hours, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and focused on national issues as well as possible inter-party cooperation.
The meeting drew several prominent political figures, including former Minister of Information Jerry Gana, former Niger State Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Also in attendance were former governors Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Aminu Tambuwal, and Rotimi Amaechi.
Other participants included ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola and former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, alongside members of the PDP National Working Committee.
Party Urges Unity Ahead of Primaries
Despite the internal disagreement, Mohammed reassured party faithful that preparations for the PDP’s upcoming primaries were progressing smoothly. He noted that official timelines and guidelines would be communicated in due course.
“The party remains focused on its internal processes and its commitment to credible leadership for Nigerians,” he added.
Growing Internal Divisions
The development underscores deepening divisions within the PDP as factions jostle for influence ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts warn that such parallel engagements and public disagreements could weaken the party’s cohesion if not urgently addressed.
With multiple power blocs emerging and high-profile figures aligning across political lines, the PDP faces mounting pressure to maintain unity while positioning itself as a viable contender in the next general elections.
