(DDM) – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has once again plunged into a deep internal crisis as rival factions intensify their struggle for control ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the latest phase of the turmoil follows a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing any national officers of the party pending the resolution of an ongoing leadership dispute.
The ruling has further fractured the already divided opposition party, with multiple camps laying claim to the authentic National Working Committee (NWC) leadership.
Sources within the PDP revealed that the court order was sought by a faction loyal to a prominent former governor, who accused the current leadership of breaching internal procedures and acting in violation of the party’s constitution.
The restraining order has effectively paralyzed the operations of the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, halting preparations for the upcoming congresses and primaries scheduled for early 2026.
Party insiders told DDM that the crisis reflects the ongoing power struggle between old guard loyalists and reformist blocs seeking to reposition the PDP as a credible opposition ahead of the 2027 elections.
Analysts describe the situation as another episode in the party’s long history of internal instability since losing power in 2015.
The factionalization reportedly cuts across several geopolitical zones, with some state chapters already aligning with either of the two emerging national factions.
A member of the PDP Board of Trustees, who spoke to DDM on condition of anonymity, said the leadership crisis could “determine whether the party survives or collapses before 2027.”
He warned that unless the warring groups embrace reconciliation, the PDP risks losing its identity and credibility before the next election cycle.
Meanwhile, efforts by elder statesmen and founding members to mediate between the factions have so far failed, as both sides continue to accuse each other of betrayal, manipulation, and political sabotage.
One faction, reportedly loyal to the former vice president and 2023 presidential candidate, insists that the court order is a ploy to weaken internal opposition and hijack the party structure ahead of 2027.
The opposing camp, however, maintains that it is acting in defense of “party discipline and constitutional order,” accusing some national officers of financial mismanagement and imposition of candidates.
The development has attracted concern from state governors elected on the party’s platform, some of whom are reportedly contemplating forming a new coalition movement if the crisis persists.
Political observers note that the renewed infighting comes at a time when the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is consolidating its hold on national structures, leaving the PDP vulnerable to further decline.
The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary has yet to issue an official statement on the court order, fueling speculation that the leadership vacuum could deepen.
As legal and political battles continue, party loyalists are urging the national caucus to urgently convene a peace and reconciliation summit to avert a total breakdown.
With less than two years before the 2027 general elections, the PDP now faces what many describe as “a make-or-break moment” that will test whether it can reclaim its status as Nigeria’s dominant opposition or fade further into political obscurity.
