By Emmanuel Enebeli
Since losing power in 2015, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has struggled to define its role as an opposition party. The 2023 general election further exposed the party’s deep-seated internal divisions, leaving it unable to mount a strong challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Rather than asserting itself as a formidable opposition force, the PDP appears hesitant to confront the government, raising questions about its commitment to democratic accountability. This reluctance has fueled speculation that the party is afraid to be a true opposition, a position that weakens Nigeria’s democracy.
The PDP was founded in 1998 as a coalition of political elites united by a common goal: to return Nigeria to civilian rule. Under its banner, the party won the 1999 presidential election and held power for 16 years, producing three presidents—Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan. However, since its historic loss in 2015 to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC, the party has been plagued by leadership crises, defections, and ideological inconsistencies, preventing it from playing the crucial role of a structured and organized opposition.
One of the biggest issues facing the PDP is its lack of internal cohesion. The party has consistently struggled with infighting, with factions loyal to different power blocs engaging in bitter rivalries. The post-2015 era saw the rise of multiple factions, notably between the Ahmed Makarfi and Ali Modu Sheriff camps, a battle that severely weakened the party ahead of the 2019 election. The 2023 election exposed even deeper divisions, particularly with the emergence of the G5 Governors, led by Nyesom Wike, who openly opposed the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
The PDP’s failure to rally behind its members during times of crisis further highlights its weaknesses. The case of Olisa Metuh, a former party spokesperson who was prosecuted for corruption during the Buhari administration, showed a lack of solidarity within the party. Rather than standing by him, the PDP distanced itself, allowing the APC-led government to define the narrative. Similarly, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, once a vocal PDP figure, found himself isolated when facing legal battles, with little to no support from the party.
The ongoing crisis in Rivers State between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, now FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, further illustrates the PDP’s failure to manage internal conflicts. The party has largely remained silent, unwilling to take a definitive stance, allowing the APC to exploit the division. Likewise, the party has not shown strong backing for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, despite the political challenges she faces. This pattern of abandoning key members in difficult times has created a perception that the PDP lacks loyalty and unity.
A strong opposition party serves as a watchdog, holding the government accountable and presenting alternative policies. However, the PDP’s inability to organize a coherent opposition movement has allowed the APC to govern without serious political scrutiny. Democratic systems thrive on active and engaged opposition parties that challenge the ruling government through policy debates and mobilization. The PDP, instead, appears to be consumed by internal disputes, rendering it ineffective in this crucial role.
For the PDP to reclaim its status as a serious political force, it must first resolve its leadership crisis. A unified leadership structure with a clear ideological focus is necessary to present a credible alternative to the APC. The party must also work towards internal democracy, ensuring that all members feel represented and valued. The lack of cohesion within the PDP makes it difficult for members to remain committed, leading to frequent defections and weakening its overall political influence.
The issue of internal crises persists across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, affecting the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at both national and state levels. In states where the party holds power, underlying tensions and dissatisfaction remain, despite outward appearances of stability. Delta State serves as a prime example, where many party loyalists feel abandoned following the 2023 general elections.
Those who made significant sacrifices—navigating political risks, enduring hardships, and contributing to the party’s success—now find themselves sidelined. While it is understood that appointments cannot accommodate everyone, the party must establish a more inclusive system of appreciation and recognition. This growing sense of neglect has deepened divisions within the PDP, weakening its foundation as the main opposition party.
Once regarded as a formidable political force, the PDP is now facing fragmentation. The iconic “Umbrella” that once symbolized unity and progressive politics is gradually being torn apart. To reclaim its position and remain a viable alternative, the party must urgently reassess its strategy, rebuild internal cohesion, and adopt a winning approach to governance and opposition politics.Globally, successful opposition parties adopt a more strategic approach. The Labour Party in the UK, for instance, effectively challenges the ruling Conservative government through strong policy positions and a united front. The Democratic Party in the United States, even when out of power, remains a formidable opposition by maintaining internal discipline and clear messaging. The PDP must learn from these examples if it wishes to remain relevant in Nigeria’s political landscape.
A strong opposition party benefits not just its members but also the entire country. It ensures that the ruling party is held accountable, prevents excesses, and provides alternative governance options. The PDP’s reluctance to embrace this role has left a vacuum in Nigeria’s political system, reducing democratic competition and limiting policy debates. If the party continues on this path, it risks further irrelevance, paving the way for APC dominance without meaningful checks and balances.
The PDP’s failure to act as a true opposition party is a serious concern for Nigerian democracy. Without a strong opposition, the government faces less scrutiny, leading to weaker governance. To remain relevant, the PDP must rebuild from within, resolve its internal conflicts, and present a united front. Only then can it effectively challenge the APC and fulfill its role as the alternative political voice Nigerians need.
Emmanuel Enebeli, Mnipr, Public Relations and Media Strategist, Environmental Advocate. Email: enebelli@hotmail.com, Phone: +234 (806) 331 9057
