2027: PDP warns Wike, Adeleke, others backing Tinubu, threatens sanctions

ABUJA — The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has warned prominent members of the party who are openly endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027 to retrace their steps or they would face severe sanctions for anti-party activities

The decision comes amid deepening internal rifts fuelled by high-profile defections and public displays of support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the NWC stressed that such conduct breaches Section 10(6) of the PDP Constitution, which forbids members from aligning with other parties or groups in ways that undermine the PDP.  

Offenders, it warned, must withdraw their comments or face tougher disciplinary measures.

Quoting the party’s constitution, the NWC said: “No member of the party shall align with other parties or groups to undermine the party or any of its elected government.” The warning follows a string of public endorsements for Tinubu from key PDP figures.  

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike publicly backed Tinubu in June, calling himself an asset to the president’s campaign while retaining his PDP membership.

Last month, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke and the Osun PDP caucus also declared support for Tinubu, describing him as a ‘proud son of Osun’ after consultations with stakeholders.  

In Ogun State, former governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu and the entire state chapter endorsed Tinubu’s re-election.

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has likewise thrown his weight behind the president, even appearing at an APC rally while still a PDP member. The NWC warned that such acts have fuelled division, disaffection, and a ‘heavy haemorrhaging’ of members,   risks it says could damage the PDP’s electoral prospects if unchecked. 

Citing Section 59(1) of the constitution, it issued formal reprimands and demanded retractions. 

It urged all members to stay united ahead of the PDP National Convention, set for 15–16 November 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

“The NWC charges all members of the party to remain loyal, focused, and work assiduously towards the successful conduct of the PDP National Convention,” the statement added.

Cupped from Punch.