PDP Restructures and Faces Factionalism Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is undertaking a series of structural shifts and facing significant internal fragmentation across several Nigerian states as the 2027 general elections approach. In Kwara State, the party dissolved all caucuses across 16 local government areas following a meeting with party leader Bukola Saraki. State Publicity Secretary Olusegun Adewara stated the move aims to refresh party structures and broaden participation to create a more inclusive political machinery.

Simultaneously, the party is grappling with members endorsing opposition candidates. In Osun State, former governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola led a faction in endorsing All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Oyebamiji, citing a lack of inclusiveness under Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration. Similarly, in Kebbi State, retired Lieutenant General Ishaya Bamaiyi and former Minister Buhari Bala declared support for APC Governor Nasir Idris. However, Kebbi State PDP Chairman Usman Bello Suru explicitly rejected these reports, asserting that the party remains united and will field its own candidates.

Despite these divisions, the PDP continues to expand its membership through high-profile defections. In Abuja, the party welcomed Thomas Dugeri, the majority leader of the Benue State House of Assembly, who resigned from the APC after failing to secure his party's return ticket. Dugeri has already emerged as the PDP candidate for the 2027 elections in Benue State.