Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is facing deep internal turmoil that could significantly undermine its prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections, following conflicting interpretations of recent Supreme Court rulings on its leadership crisis.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News, legal practitioner Dr. Maxwell Opara said the ongoing disputes within the party have created uncertainty over its leadership structure, warning that the situation could weaken its political relevance if not urgently addressed.

“Any serious politician now who is in PDP must be a joker,” he said.

Opara explained that the Supreme Court’s judgment did not directly resolve the leadership tussle but instead referred key issues back to the Federal High Court, leaving room for multiple interpretations by rival factions.

“The Supreme Court did not go into the substance of the matter… they should go back to Federal High Court,” he said.

According to him, the confusion stems from competing appeals and cross-appeals filed by different factions, each seeking judicial validation of their claims to leadership.

“If the prayer was not granted… it means that your suspension still stands,” he noted.

He added that the dismissal of certain appeals has raised questions about the legitimacy of actions taken by party officials, particularly where such actions were carried out during periods of suspension.

“If you are a suspended secretary and you sign a notice… that convention is a nullity,” he explained.

Opara said that the uncertainty has created a leadership vacuum, with different groups laying claim to authority within the party.

“As we speak… there is no leadership of PDP,” he said.

He warned that the continued legal battles could have far-reaching implications for the party’s ability to prepare effectively for future elections.

“I don’t know the person INEC is going to accept,” he added.

According to him, unless the crisis is resolved quickly, the party risks being sidelined in the next electoral cycle.

“They should either come back together… or forget about 2027,” he said.

Opara also pointed out that the prolonged disputes could force factions within the party to seek alliances outside the PDP as a survival strategy.

“Look for a party to form alliance with… and forget about PDP,” he advised.

He further suggested that the crisis may not be entirely organic, hinting at possible external influence aimed at destabilizing opposition parties.

“This particular problem… is sponsored,” he said.

Opara concluded that unless the PDP resolves its internal leadership crisis and legal disputes, it risks losing relevance ahead of 2027, warning that continued fragmentation could ultimately push its members into alternative political alliances. (AriseNews TV)

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