In a recent development, the main opposition party in Nigeria, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has failed to exert control or influence over the choice of the minority leadership in the National Assembly. This has exposed the party’s weakening and disarray, caused in part by some internal conflicts and power struggles.
A group of former PDP governors, known as the G-5, played a significant role in determining the politics of the minority leadership. They allegedly compromised the current PDP leadership and successfully undermined the party’s influence. By engaging in what is referred to as “requisite money politics,” the G-5 governors aligned with other opposition elements to weaken the PDP.
In both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the chosen minority leaders do not align with the mainstream PDP’s preferences. This indicates that the party has lost its hold on the minority leadership positions, while the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the G-5 governors have gained an advantage.
The G-5 governors reportedly enlisted the support of other opposition parties, particularly the Labour Party (LP), through financial inducements. They aimed to capture these parties and incite them to stand against the PDP consistently.
The fragmentation within the PDP began during the party’s presidential primary, when one of the aspirants, Aminu Tambuwal, stepped down in favor of Atiku Abubakar. This decision, which altered the power dynamics within the party, caused dissatisfaction among some members, including Governor Wike. Disagreements over power balancing and the resignation of the suspended National Chairman of the party, Iyorchia Ayu, further fueled the internal rebellion.
Governor Wike and others argued that a southerner should replace Ayu as the party’s national chairman since a northerner, Atiku, emerged as the presidential candidate. They considered Ayu’s refusal to step down a breach of trust. Although the party acknowledged the request, it proposed addressing it after the general election. However, the G-5 rejected this, leading to continued conflict with the PDP leadership.
In the recent National Assembly proceedings, the G-5 opposed the PDP and worked against the nomination of Tambuwal as the party’s choice for Minority Leader. This move was seen as retaliation for Tambuwal’s decision to stand down for Atiku during the presidential primary, which allegedly affected Governor Wike’s presidential aspirations.
The G-5 governors have resolved to remain in opposition to the PDP and seize opportunities to challenge the party. Their actions serve as a response to what they perceive as mistreatment by the PDP leadership.