Wike faction protests as Oyo court upholds PDP convention
The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) backed by Nyesom Wike has rejected a court ruling in Oyo State that upheld the validity of the party's recent national convention.
In a significant legal development, the Oyo State High Court upheld the Peoples Democratic Party's national convention held on November 15 and 16, 2025, which elected Tanimu Turaki as the National Chairman. This judgment came as a response to a challenge from a faction of the PDP led by Nyesom Wike, who dismissed the court's decision as insignificant and merely academic. The Wike faction insists that the convention's outcomes are invalid and continues to challenge the legitimacy of the party's leadership changes.
The ruling was celebrated by the Turaki-led National Working Committee, who viewed it as a testament to the party's commitment to internal democracy and unity. Their praise for the court's decision highlights the contrasting perspectives within the PDP, underscoring the ongoing power struggle and ideological divisions that characterize the party's current dynamics. Justice Ladiran Akintola's affirmation of the convention's legitimacy strengthens Turaki's position and may bolster his faction's authority within the party.
As the PDP navigates its internal conflicts, the implications of this ruling extend beyond legalities, reflecting broader issues of governance, party cohesion, and democratic practices within Nigeria's political landscape. The ongoing disputes signal potential challenges ahead for the PDP as it seeks to unify its factions to present a strong front in upcoming elections, while the resistance from the Wike faction raises questions about future party strategies and alliances.