The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South is facing serious internal conflict, as governors from the region are locked in a power struggle with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and the party’s South-South National Vice Chairman, Dan Orbih.
The controversy stems from the recently held PDP zonal congress in Calabar, which has been disowned by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
Governors Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) have expressed strong opposition to the congress, insisting on either a fresh election or the removal of Orbih.
Wike, now serving as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, remains adamant that the congress was valid despite resistance from the governors.
The dispute has been further complicated by legal battles, as a Rivers State High Court had earlier placed a restriction on the congress.
However, the election proceeded regardless, leading to the NWC’s rejection of its outcome.
Sources within the party suggest that the governors are displeased with the way the congress was conducted, as they believe their influence in the region was disregarded.
A senior party member revealed that they are now working with the NWC to explore legal options to overturn the results and push for a new congress.
“The governors do not want Wike dominating the South-South PDP any longer. They believe the time has come for them to take charge and decide the party’s leadership in the region,” the source disclosed.
Another party insider emphasized that the rift is escalating beyond Rivers State, stating, “The governors are ready to challenge Wike’s grip on the party. The crisis has now spread across the entire South-South.”