- PDP governors held strategic meetings with opposition leaders in Bauchi and Kano ahead of 2027 elections
- Internal reconciliation efforts within the PDP stalled amid deepening factional disputes
- Court rulings invalidated a rival convention, further escalating the party’s leadership crisis
Ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general election, key political figures across party lines have intensified consultations, signalling potential realignments amid deepening internal divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed met privately in Bauchi with Seriake Dickson, before travelling to Kano for further discussions with Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi. Although publicly framed as part of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, insiders suggested the meetings were linked to early coalition-building efforts for the next presidential race.
The Kano gathering coincided with the 10th annual Dandalin Kwankwasiyya, a political and cultural event hosted by Kwankwaso, which drew prominent stakeholders from across Nigeria. Sources indicated that beyond festivities, the meeting served as a platform for high-level consultations on electoral strategy, alliances, and possible political realignment ahead of 2027.
The developments come as reconciliation talks within the PDP appear to have stalled. The party has remained fractured for nearly a year, split between factions aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and a governors-backed bloc.
Tensions escalated following conflicting claims over the legitimacy of party leadership. A Court of Appeal ruling earlier in March nullified the outcomes of a convention held in Ibadan, declaring the election of officials under the governors’ faction invalid due to violations of electoral and constitutional provisions.
Despite initial signs of rapprochement, recent exchanges suggest that divisions persist. Makinde sharply criticised engagement with Wike’s camp, alleging that such alignment effectively supports President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. He argued that his faction represents the will of the people, in contrast to what he described as institutional backing enjoyed by their rivals.
However, Mohammed adopted a more conciliatory tone, insisting that no political disagreement is beyond resolution and emphasising ongoing efforts to unify the party through established mechanisms.
Meanwhile, spokespersons from both factions traded accusations. The Wike-aligned camp alleged that the rival group was plotting to undermine the PDP’s forthcoming national convention scheduled for 29 and 30 March, while the opposing faction dismissed the claims as “blackmail” and reaffirmed its commitment to reconciliation.
With legal battles, political manoeuvring, and cross-party consultations intensifying, the PDP faces a critical test of unity as Nigeria’s political landscape gradually shifts towards the 2027 elections.