The internal disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have prompted party factions to seek alliances with smaller parties and regional platforms as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
The move aims to safeguard aspirants who are left uncertain by the ongoing leadership crisis and prevent defections that could undermine the party’s electoral strength.
Sources within the party said that blocs loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, are exploring partnerships with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and, in some cases, considering the All Progressives Congress (APC) as alternative platforms for their candidates.
The discussions come amid fears that the PDP may struggle to field candidates due to legal disputes over the legitimacy of its rival factions.
The turmoil originated from the November 2025 national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, which produced competing leadership claims.
One faction, led by Taminu Turaki and backed by governors Makinde, Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), conducted primaries in various states, including Ekiti, producing candidates such as Wole Oluyede.
Meanwhile, the Wike-aligned faction did not hold primaries in some states, leaving several aspirants in limbo regarding their political future.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has refused to recognise the Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC), citing the ongoing litigation and court orders.
INEC also rejected Oluyede as the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti State, emphasising that the party must settle its internal disputes before it can participate fully in the elections.
Currently, five court cases are ongoing to determine the party’s leadership and the legitimacy of the November convention. Two critical appeals are before the Court of Appeal, while other cases continue in lower courts.
Among the notable suits are those filed by Austin Nwachukwu (PDP Imo Chairman), Amah Nnanna (PDP Abia Chairman), and former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido, challenging the conduct of the November convention and seeking recognition of their preferred leadership structures.
A member of the Turaki-led NWC, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the party is taking steps to ensure aspirants can contest even if the PDP cannot officially endorse them.
“We are already taking steps so that even if some of us remain in the PDP, our candidates will be able to contest under other parties, especially the ADC,” the official said.
Negotiations with the ADC are ongoing, though no formal agreements have been finalised.
Meanwhile, PDP officials loyal to Wike, including National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu and spokesperson Ini Ememobong, insist the party will reconcile and field candidates in all elections.
Ememobong said, “PDP will field a presidential candidate and others, you can take that to the bank. We are fully committed to participating in the 2027 elections.”
