The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been plunged deeper into crisis as former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, openly demanded the expulsion of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from the party. In a recent interview with Vanguard, Lamido described Wike as a liability, claiming his presence is undermining the party's unity and credibility.
Lamido’s remarks are the latest in a series of events that have continued to fracture the PDP since the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. Tensions within the party have intensified, largely revolving around the fallout from the presidential race and the future leadership direction as the 2027 elections approach.
During the interview, Lamido did not mince words, saying:
“Wike has become a disaster for the PDP. He has consistently worked against the party’s interests. The time has come for the PDP to expel him if it truly wants to preserve its integrity.”
The statement has reignited internal debates and heightened factionalism, especially among party loyalists who are split over Wike’s role and influence within the PDP. While some support Lamido’s position, others see the call for expulsion as politically motivated and hypocritical.
The rift between Lamido and Wike dates back to the 2023 elections, when Wike, as part of the now-infamous G5 Governors, opposed the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and instead aligned with President Bola Tinubu. This defection and the fallout it caused have been central to the party's internal turmoil.
Wike’s critics argue that his continued affiliation with the PDP while serving in the APC-led federal government is a betrayal of party loyalty. They claim his influence is destabilizing the party from within. Lamido echoed this sentiment, stressing the urgency for the PDP to take decisive disciplinary action before further damage is done.
Meanwhile, Wike's allies have pushed back against Lamido’s comments, accusing the former governor of deflecting from his own alleged failures during the party's troubled 2023 campaign. They argue that Wike’s strategic importance and national visibility cannot be ignored, despite his controversial methods.
The ongoing PDP crisis has sparked widespread concern about the party’s future and its preparedness for the 2027 elections. Political analysts warn that unless the leadership takes strong, unifying steps, internal fractures may ultimately derail the party's chances of reclaiming national power.
As debates grow louder and the leadership weighs its next move, Lamido’s explosive statement has injected fresh urgency into a crisis already threatening to engulf the opposition party. The call for Wike’s expulsion is not just about one man — it’s a reflection of a party at war with itself.