By Yusuf Saidu Tara
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has long been a significant force in Nigeria’s political landscape. However, recent internal conflicts and betrayals within the party have raised serious questions about its future.
The party, founded in 1998, has been a major player in Nigerian politics, controlling the presidency for 16 years from 1999 to 2015. However, since its defeat in the 2015 general elections by the All Progressives Congress (APC), the PDP has struggled with internal divisions and power tussle.
In recent years, the party has seen a series of high-profile defections and betrayals. Some members have been accused of undermining party efforts, leaking strategic information to opponents, and acting in their own self-interest rather than for the collective good. The so called G5 Governors and their leader Nyesom Wike who openly worked against the party in 2023 are undermining the efforts of the PDP to reposition itself to reclaim power come 2027.
Wike’s romance with the ruling APC is very clear as he holds a ministerial position in the current administration, his integrity and loyalty as a party person is compromised.
Apart from Wike and his cohorts there are other party bigwigs and members who, for personal gain, betray the party’s principles and trust. These individuals often work covertly to disrupt party activities, align with opposition forces, or sabotage electoral efforts. The impact of such actions can be devastating, leading to electoral losses, weakened leadership, and a diminished public image.
Prominent cases of such betrayal have involved key figures especially in the South-east and South-south who, despite benefiting from the party’s platform, have either defected to rival parties or engaged in anti-party activities that weaken the PDP’s chances in the last elections. This trend has led to growing frustration and calls for decisive action against these elements.
The call to “remove Judas or sink” emphasises the urgency for the PDP to cleanse itself of disloyal elements. Party leaders and loyal members argue that without addressing these internal issues, the PDP risks further decline and irrelevance.
There must be a thorough investigation to identify members whose actions are detrimental to the party, followed by their expulsion. However, implementing stricter rules and consequences for actions that go against party interests, ensuring that loyalty and discipline are maintained are necessary.
The PDP should also in her best interest foster a culture of transparency, inclusiveness, and collective decision-making to build trust and unity within the party and ensure that leadership positions are held by individuals with a proven track record of loyalty and dedication to the party’s principles and objectives.
For the PDP, the path forward is clear but challenging. Removing disloyal members and fostering a culture of unity and integrity are essential steps towards regaining political strength. By addressing the internal “Judases,” the PDP can rebuild its foundation, restore public confidence, and reposition itself as a viable alternative to the ruling APC.
The success of these efforts will depend on the willingness of party leaders to take bold and decisive actions. Only by confronting the internal saboteurs head-on can the PDP hope to avoid sinking further into political obscurity and instead, chart a course towards a more stable and successful future.
Yusuf Saidu Tara,
University of Maiduguri, Borno state
tarasaidu@gmail.com
Culled from Blue Print.
