By Amofokhai Williams
In a dramatic turn at its National Convention in Ibadan, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expelled several senior figures, most notably Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, accusing them of “anti-party activities” that threatened the unity and reputation of the party.
The motion for expulsion was moved by Chief Bode George, a PDP founding father, and seconded by Governor Bala Mohammed.
The decision was ratified unanimously by delegates at the convention.
According to the PDP, the goal is to “restore unity, discipline and focus ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
Among those expelled are: Nyesom Wike, former Rivers State governor and current FCT Minister, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, PDP National Secretary and Ayodele Fayose, former Governor of Ekiti State.
Other officials including Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Umar Bature, Mao Ohuabunwa, George Turner, Austin Nwachukwu, Abraham Amah, and Dan Orbih.
The party’s official X (formerly Twitter) account confirmed the expulsions, citing a desire to clamp down on internal divisions.
The PDP accused the expelled members of engaging in “various breaches” of its constitution, including holding parallel congresses, canvassing for other parties, and sponsoring litigation against the party.
According to the convention, their actions have “brought ridicule” to the party.
At least one faction of the PDP had previously sued to halt the convention, arguing state congresses were not properly conducted, a legal battle that has underscored long-running tension within the party.
Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to Wike, sharply rejected the legitimacy of the expulsions, calling the Ibadan gathering “Detty December in November.”
He described the convention as a raucous party where “after indulging in drinks, delegates were free to say anything.”
The Wike-aligned faction had previously challenged the convention in court.
