Former spokesman accuses APC of orchestrating internal strife in PDP

The former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of exacerbating the crisis within the opposition party.

Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Tuesday, Ologbondiyan endorsed claims by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, that external interference is undermining the party’s cohesion.

Ologbondiyan alleged that the APC is employing calculated strategies to weaken the PDP, describing the ruling party’s actions as an attempt to reduce the opposition to irrelevance.

Central to his argument was the appointment of former Rivers State Governor and PDP stalwart, Nyesom Wike, as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the APC government.

“The involvement of Nyesom Wike in the APC government has created a room that could lead to the collapse of the PDP,” Ologbondiyan asserted. “It’s part of a deliberate strategy to orchestrate the disintegration of our party.”

Adding to the turmoil is a leadership dispute within the PDP. Ologbondiyan described the tenure of the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, as illegitimate, highlighting regional grievances within the party.

“The Northcentral zone believes the National Chairmanship position should return to them,” Ologbondiyan explained. “Damagum, who is from the Northeast, is occupying the position against the expectations of stakeholders in other regions. His continued stay is an issue within the party.”

READ ALSO: PDP faces turmoil as factional secretaries prepare for showdown at party headquarters

Political analysts have weighed in on the unfolding drama. Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, a political science lecturer at the University of Abuja, believes external interference can destabilize any opposition party. “If the PDP’s allegations against the APC are true, it reflects a troubling trend of using state power to undermine political rivals,” Okeke said.

However, Lagos-based political analyst Kehinde Afolayan emphasized the need for internal reform within the PDP. “While external influences may exist, the PDP must first address its internal divisions,” Afolayan noted. “Failing to manage leadership conflicts and regional demands will only exacerbate the crisis.”

Quoting an African proverb, Ologbondiyan remarked, “If there’s no crack in the wall, the lizard cannot enter.” He suggested that internal weaknesses within the PDP had created opportunities for external manipulation.

He also criticized the party’s handling of the leadership tussle and warned that unresolved grievances could further erode public confidence. “There are issues within the PDP, but external factors have made resolution more complex,” he added.

Despite the challenges, Ologbondiyan expressed optimism that the crisis could be resolved if external interference is curtailed and the party prioritizes inclusivity and fairness.

Analysts agree that resolving the PDP’s crisis is crucial for Nigeria’s democracy, as a strong opposition is vital for holding the government accountable. As the 2027 elections approach, the PDP must urgently address its internal conflicts to remain a viable alternative to the APC.

For now, the party finds itself at a crossroads, with its leadership grappling with the dual challenge of managing internal discord and countering perceived external threats.