PDP: Battle for control intensifies between Atiku and Wike ahead of NEC meeting

Ahead of the crucial National Executive Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) meetings, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders are intensifying their efforts to mobilize supporters and resources.

These meetings will determine the party’s leadership and direction leading up to the 2027 elections.

The main contenders in this power struggle are Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the party’s presidential candidate in the last election, and Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister.

However, tensions have risen between the two as Atiku bypassed Wike in selecting his running mate for the previous election.

Atiku’s camp is wary of the PDP acting National Chairman Ambassador Ilya Damagun and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, who are seen as Wike’s allies. Atiku believes that these individuals may work against his interests and his presidential ambitions in 2027.

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As a result, various interest groups within the party have shifted into tactical mode, engaging in meetings and discreet consultations.

The North Central zone of the party is advocating for one of its own to be appointed as the national chairman, filling the position left vacant by Senator Iyorchia Ayu after the party’s defeat in the 2023 election.

Gabriel Suswam, the former Governor of Benue State, has already declared his ambition for this role.

He argues that Benue should be given the opportunity to complete Ayu’s tenure since Ayu is also from Benue.

Additionally, former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Niger State Governor Senator Babangida Aliyu are rumored to be interested in the position.

On the other hand, the pro-Wike forces are pushing for the confirmation of Damagum as National Chairman and the retention of Anyanwu as National Secretary until the next convention, aiming to solidify their influence within the party.