The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday took dramatic disciplinary action at its national convention in Ibadan, expelling several prominent members, including former Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike, over what it described as “persistent anti-party activities.”
The sweeping sanctions, ratified by an overwhelming majority of delegates, mark one of the most decisive internal crackdowns in the party’s recent history.
Party officials said the expulsions were necessary to restore cohesion and prepare the PDP for what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 general election.
Those expelled include Senator Samuel Anyanwu, former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, senior lawyer Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), and former lawmaker Austin Nwachukwu.
The names were read out on the convention floor to loud applause from many delegates, signaling strong grassroots support for the move.
A convention insider told The Reporters Diary that the decision followed “months of internal review and evidence-gathering” regarding activities the party considered subversive.
No immediate response came from those sanctioned, though allies of some of the expelled figures have long argued that the PDP’s leadership has been intolerant of dissent.
Wike, who currently serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has been at the centre of controversy within the PDP since 2023.
His acceptance of a federal appointment from the rival APC was widely viewed within the opposition as a betrayal ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Similarly, Anyanwu’s conduct during the 2023 Imo governorship contest had raised questions among party leaders concerning his loyalty and strategic alignment.
Sources close to the National Working Committee said the disciplinary panel found “consistent patterns of collaboration with rival forces” among those expelled.
The party’s spokesman told The Reporters Diary that the measures were intended to “draw a bold line between loyalty and sabotage.”
He added that the PDP was sending “a clear message that internal indiscipline will no longer be tolerated.”
The Ibadan convention, which drew thousands of delegates from across Nigeria, had been billed as a turning point for the troubled party.
Since losing the 2023 presidential election, the PDP has grappled with internal divisions, factional battles, and prolonged leadership disputes.
Many delegates on Saturday described the expulsions as overdue and essential to rejuvenating the party’s organizational structure.
Others, however, expressed concern that the strong-handed approach could alienate segments of the party’s support base.
Despite the mixed reactions, the party hierarchy insisted that unity could only be achieved through decisive action against those undermining collective goals.
“The PDP is choosing survival over sentiment,” a senior official The Reporters Diary on the sidelines of the convention.
As the convention continues in Ibadan, party leaders are expected to unveil new strategic reforms aimed at rebuilding public confidence and strengthening grassroots mobilization.
Further details on the expulsions and subsequent restructuring measures are expected to emerge as proceedings continue.
