The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is once again facing internal turmoil as a deepening feud between two prominent members Chief Bode George and Nyesom Wike highlights growing cracks within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a recent interview, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, openly criticized Bode George, a founding member and PDP Board of Trustees stalwart. Wike accused George of lacking any tangible achievements despite decades of political influence, particularly pointing to the PDP’s persistent failure in Lagos State.

George swiftly responded, calling Wike’s comments “unfounded” and described the minister as politically inexperienced and unaware of the sacrifices made to build the party.
“Wike is too new to understand the foundation we laid. He shouldn’t throw stones at a house he doesn’t fully comprehend,” George asserted.

Zoning Disagreements and G5 Fallout

Although both men support zoning the 2027 PDP presidential ticket to the South, they differ sharply on approach. George warned that Wike’s aggressive tactics could alienate stakeholders and further divide the party, referencing the unresolved fallout from the 2023 elections.

George blamed the PDP’s 2023 defeat on the refusal to adhere to zoning principles, singling out Atiku Abubakar and former party chairman Iyorchia Ayu for ignoring the South’s claim to the ticket, leading to the emergence of the G5 Governors bloc, led by Wike, which weakened the party’s performance at the polls.

Controversy Over National Secretary Role

George also criticised the reinstatement of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary after he unsuccessfully ran for governor of Imo State. Calling the return a “constitutional aberration,” he argued it sets a dangerous precedent and undermines party discipline. His view is echoed by Abia PDP leaders, who demand the position be reassigned within the South-East in line with party agreements.

Wike Doubles Down: “George Has No Legacy in Lagos”

Wike fired back during a televised media chat, mocking George’s suggestion that he should have paid the PDP’s outstanding ground rent as a sign of loyalty after the party secretariat was sealed.

“If an old man has no job, he should stay home and read newspapers,” Wike quipped.
“The PDP didn’t make me I made the PDP relevant in Rivers. What has George achieved for the party in Lagos since 1999?”

Wike defended Senator Anyanwu’s continued role, stating he was duly elected and cannot be removed at will. He accused some PDP leaders of attempting to rewrite party agreements and marginalize him.

“PDP is not owned by anyone. I speak the truth and won’t be silenced. If you can’t handle it, you’re free to leave—but I won’t,” Wike declared.

He also questioned the legality of the party’s last NEC meeting, saying only the National Secretary has the constitutional authority to convene such a gathering.

Rivers State Rift and Media Spending Criticism

Addressing tensions with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Wike denied interfering in Rivers politics, saying he gave full support during Fubara’s election and now feels betrayed.

“I gave everything my support, resources. What I get is betrayal. But there’s no crisis from my end,” he said.

Meanwhile, human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor criticised Wike for hosting frequent and costly media chats, calling them “tone-deaf” in light of the country’s economic struggles.
“At a time when citizens are battling inflation, Wike is spending public funds on political grandstanding. The money could be used for schools or relief efforts,” Ejiofor argued.

He urged President Bola Tinubu to rein in what he described as extravagant spending and redirect governance towards the needs of the people.

As the PDP navigates its internal divisions, these escalating tensions could further erode party unity and weaken its prospects ahead of 2027.