In a decisive move aimed at reasserting discipline within its ranks, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday ratified the expulsion of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose, the party’s National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and eight other prominent members.
The sweeping verdict was delivered during the party’s national convention held at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan, Oyo State.
Delegates from 17 states were present as the convention turned into one of the party’s most consequential gatherings in recent years.
The motion to remove the 11 members was introduced by elder statesman and PDP chieftain Bode George, who accused the affected members of engaging in activities that undermined the party’s unity and electoral fortunes.
According to him, their repeated litigations and public conduct had run contrary to the collective interest of the PDP.
The chairman of the Bauchi State chapter of the party immediately endorsed the motion.
It was subsequently put to vote by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who presided over the session.
Delegates responded with a unanimous “yes,” clearing the way for the expulsions to take effect.
The gathering drew some of the party’s highest-ranking leaders, including Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and host governor Bala Mohammed.
Also in attendance were PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, former Osun State governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Gombe State governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, and chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara.
Wike, a central figure in the party’s internal conflicts since the 2023 general elections, had faced sustained calls for disciplinary action.
Despite criticisms, the former Rivers State governor repeatedly defended his actions, insisting he acted in the interest of “equity, fairness, and justice” when he withheld support from the party’s presidential candidate.
In an October 2024 television interview, Wike maintained that he bore no regret for his stance during the elections, rejecting allegations of anti-party behavior.
His appointment as FCT Minister by President Bola Tinubu of the APC had further deepened suspicions within the PDP about his loyalty.
Wike had long argued that some PDP leaders were themselves complicit in actions that contravened the party’s constitution.
His now-famous declaration in January 2023“anti-party begets anti-party”, captured his claim that he was only responding to wrongdoing within the party’s leadership.
Saturday’s decision indicates that the party’s patience with the protracted internal rifts has finally run out.
The expulsion of such influential figures marks one of the most dramatic disciplinary actions by the PDP in recent years and is expected to shape the party’s future direction as it attempts to rebuild following a series of electoral setbacks.
