Nigeria's PDP faction led by Wike issues certificates of return amid internal crisis

A faction of Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike is asserting that it is the sole legal wing recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The group has issued certificates of return and INEC nomination forms to its candidates for state assemblies in Adamawa and Kwara, declaring an end to internal divisions. State chairman Engr. Belmond Dogo said, “Today marks the end of faction in the state. We are one in Adamawa. There is no faction; we are the only PDP in the state.”

The claim of exclusive legitimacy is contested by rival PDP factions. A petition filed by a party faction sought a police probe into alleged false communications sent to INEC, naming party secretary Samuel Anyanwu and factional national chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed. The petition’s counsel argued, “This petition is not about personalities. It is about whether public institutions can be misled with documents that do not reflect the true position of internal party processes.”

Party leaders have also rallied support among women, youth and regional politicians. PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu called for greater political participation by women and youth, while the party publicly backed Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru against accusations of anti‑party interference by Minister Wike. Governing‑candidate Kelechi Anosike reiterated the faction’s stance, stating, “There are not two PDPs. We have only one PDP, and it is the one recognised by INEC, with Nyesom Wike as our national leader.”

The dispute unfolds ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the Wike‑aligned faction presenting its candidates and urging grassroots mobilisation, while rival groups claim parallel leadership structures, reflecting a broader crisis within the PDP.