By Aaior K. Comfort

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing internal conflict as National Deputy Publicity Secretary Ibrahim Abdullahi disputes claims that the party is influenced by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. Instead, he points to the actions of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, as central to its current issues.

During a press conference titled “Fix PDP to Fix Nigeria” in Abuja, Abdullahi noted that the PDP has been in turmoil since before the 2023 elections. While some party members blame acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, an ally of Wike, others hold Atiku responsible for the party’s declining popularity and influence.

Abdullahi criticized Atiku’s frequent departures from the PDP, stating that these actions have eroded support among stakeholders. He remarked, “We inherited the problems we are facing today. We are not in the pocket of Wike. Atiku Abubakar succeeded in foisting the worst government on us.”

In contrast, Ikenga Ugochinyere, a lawmaker from Imo State, believes that Wike and Damagum are primarily responsible for the challenges plaguing the PDP. He emphasized that lawmakers and stakeholders are leaving the party due to its inability to provide protection under its symbol, the umbrella.

Ugochinyere stated, “We need to realize that we are opposition and restructure ourselves along that opposition line,” adding that the party currently lacks a strong opposition stance.

He warned that if the PDP’s internal crisis continues, it risks becoming a laughingstock among Nigerians. He urged party leaders to address leadership struggles and internal issues, highlighting the need for a new direction.

Ugochinyere concluded by criticizing the current NWC’s effectiveness, stating, “We have been so decimated that just a few days ago, Peter Obi left, and is having the same 12 states as us. This should tell us that the new generation is moving away from us.”