The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially postponed its 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, originally set for May 27, 2025, at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja. This decision comes amid intensifying concerns about the NEC’s ability to take firm disciplinary action against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.
A formal notice titled “Postponement of the 99th NEC Meeting,” signed by PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, announced the delay to allow the reconciliation committee, chaired by former Senate President Bukola Saraki, to complete its mediation efforts aimed at resolving internal disputes within the party. The notice emphasized that any unauthorized announcements from acting officials should be disregarded, and a new meeting date will be communicated in line with the PDP constitution and the Electoral Act.
Acting PDP National Chairman Ilya Damagum expressed frustration over the disciplinary committee’s slow response to over 40 petitions, especially those targeting Wike for anti-party activities. Speaking on BBC Hausa’s Gane man Hanya, Damagum highlighted that only one petition had been addressed, contributing to ongoing party instability. He pointed out that calls to expel Wike and other disruptive members were ignored until after the 2023 elections, allowing the situation to worsen.
Former PDP National Auditor Ray Nnaji also criticized Wike’s conduct, urging the party to enforce discipline strictly. Nnaji condemned threats from South-East leaders regarding party positions and called for dialogue rather than intimidation, emphasizing that the PDP belongs to all members equally. Party insider James Uzosike echoed the call for decisive leadership action, while Board of Trustees member Chief Olabode George insisted the NEC must act firmly against disloyal members, citing the contradiction of backing APC candidates while claiming PDP membership.
Meanwhile, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has rejected all peace agreements and intensified conflicts with two state governors. In a recent statement titled PDP Crisis: My Position, Wike accused Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of being the main cause of the party’s troubles, blaming him for breaches of internal agreements. Wike affirmed that Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the legitimate PDP National Secretary per Supreme Court rulings and insisted all related legal suits, including those concerning Rivers State and the state of emergency, be withdrawn immediately.
Wike detailed earlier attempts at reconciliation within the party, acknowledging his initial reservations but ultimately agreeing to resolutions before citing repeated violations. He described the PDP’s post-2023 election period as marked by distrust and dishonesty among stakeholders, warning that this “virus” must be eradicated to restore stability and progress.