The Nigerian political landscape is currently undergoing a marked transformation, characterised by the stark divergence between the once-dominant People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the ascendant All Progressives Congress (APC). While the PDP grapples with an existential crisis rooted in internal strife and diminishing public confidence, the APC, under the leadership of Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has successfully consolidated its hold on power.
This juxtaposition not only highlights the PDP’s considerable challenges but also underscores the critical importance of effective governance and strategic vision in shaping political outcomes.
It is instructive to note the persistent influence of intra-party disputes within Nigeria’s political sphere, a domain long characterised by turbulent internal dynamics, a trend that continues to shape its governance and democratic processes. Historically, these disputes have often stemmed from disparate regional, ethnic, and personal interests, significantly impacting the nation’s political stability. An understanding of these internal conflicts is crucial, as they have consistently dictated the trajectory of political power and the functionality of political parties in Nigeria.
The origins of political discord in Nigeria can be traced back to its early party formations prior to 1966. During this period, major political parties, including the Northern People’s Congress (NPC), the National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC), and the Action Group (AG), were largely structured along regional and ethnic lines. This division impeded the potential for establishing a cohesive national political framework capable of adequately addressing the interests and aspirations of Nigeria’s diverse populace. The fragmentation of political allegiances based on ethnicity not only limited collaboration among different groups but also played a pivotal role in the eventual military coups that disrupted democratic governance in subsequent decades.
The commencement of the Fourth Republic in 1999 signalled renewed hope for democracy in Nigeria; however, the potential for political stability was undermined by persistent intra-party conflicts. The struggle for control of party structures often saw members employing unscrupulous tactics to manipulate party machinery for personal gain. This trend created rifts within parties and led to instability, ultimately influencing electoral outcomes and governance. Rather than politicians working collectively towards the advancement of democratic ideals, personal interests frequently eclipsed the broader mandates of their parties.
One of the most notable instances of intra-party conflict occurred within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) between 2006 and 2007. A significant internal crisis erupted, revealing deep fissures within the party structure. This discord culminated in the formation of a breakaway faction, signalling not merely discontent but a broader power struggle among party elites. The inability to manage conflicts within the PDP highlighted the precarious nature of political allegiance in Nigeria, as personal rivalries and ambitions overshadowed collective goals. This fragmentation was emblematic of deeper systemic issues that plagued not only the PDP but the entire Nigerian political system.
The All Progressives Congress (APC), Nigeria’s ruling party since 2015, was not immune to internal conflicts. The period between 2015 and 2019 was marked by significant strife, particularly during the party’s national convention. Unlike the PDP’s earlier conflicts rooted in factionalism, the APC’s disputes revealed the complexities of navigating power balances within a coalition of diverse political interests. As different factions within the APC vied for dominance, the party’s unity and purpose were called into question, underscoring the ongoing challenges of uniting diverse political ideologies under a single banner.
The PDP, which served as the cornerstone of Nigerian democracy for nearly two decades, now finds itself in a precarious situation. Its decline from dominance can be attributed to the pivotal electoral defeat of 2015, which ushered in a period of considerable turbulence. Internal discord, particularly within a fractious National Working Committee (NWC) beset by accusations and dissent, has severely hampered its capacity to function as a credible opposition to the APC.
A recent podcast by Ndeya Television, which questioned the PDP’s efficacy as an opposition force, has reignited debate regarding its continued relevance in the Nigerian political discourse. The party’s failure to articulate a compelling alternative vision, coupled with a perception of fragmented leadership, has alienated its erstwhile supporters and eroded its credibility.
Concerns regarding internal democratic processes have arisen, with numerous party members expressing feelings of marginalisation from decision-making. This has precipitated defections, with some members even publicly endorsing prospective APC presidential candidates. Furthermore, the PDP’s lack of strategic foresight, failure to adapt to the evolving political climate, and persistent internal divisions have resulted in a diminished influence over the Nigerian electorate. With the 2027 electoral cycle looming, the party’s internal crisis casts a long shadow, prompting serious questions about its future in a rapidly shifting political landscape.
In stark contrast to the PDP’s predicament, the APC appears to be consolidating its power under the astute leadership of Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. As National Chairman, Ganduje’s tenure has been characterised by proactive governance and inclusive initiatives that resonate with the populace. From the initiation of skills acquisition programmes to the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development aimed at empowering pastoralists, Ganduje’s approach demonstrates a tangible commitment to addressing pressing socio-economic challenges, thereby bolstering the APC’s appeal.
Dr Ganduje’s vision encompasses the modernisation of the party’s operational framework through digital membership registration and the establishment of The Progressive Institute, a think tank designed to cultivate internal democracy and progressive policy formulation. This emphasis on developing a well-structured internal organisation and maintaining a forward-thinking agenda has enabled the APC to navigate challenges effectively and present itself as a stable and viable alternative to voters.
Capitalising on the political vacuum created by the PDP’s internal disruptions, the APC has maintained a united front. The clear articulation of Ganduje’s policies and an active governance style position the APC not merely as the ruling party, but as a perceived catalyst for national development.
Drawing parallels from international political landscapes can provide valuable insights into the respective circumstances of the PDP and APC. The decline of the UK Liberal Democrats following the coalition government illustrates how internal dissension and a loss of voter trust can undermine a party’s foundations.
Similarly, the trajectory of the Indian National Congress, marked by a disconnect with younger voters and internal fragmentation, mirrors the PDP’s struggles in maintaining relevance among its grassroots constituents.
Furthermore, the challenges faced by France’s Socialist Party and South Africa’s ANC resonate with the PDP’s predicament, highlighting the vulnerability of once-dominant parties that fail to adapt to evolving political climates.
These global examples serve as cautionary tales for the PDP, underscoring the critical importance of fostering unity, engaging with the electorate, and articulating a coherent vision to sustain political viability.
As the Nigerian political environment prepares for the 2027 elections, the PDP must address its internal issues with a sense of urgency. Prioritising internal democracy, establishing a cohesive leadership structure, and engaging with the electorate in a transparent manner will be essential for regaining its lost stature.
The ongoing defections and dissent underscore the critical need for reform that extends beyond superficial measures; it must address the core of party integrity and vision.
Conversely, the APC, under Ganduje’s stewardship, must continue to build upon its successes while ensuring inclusivity and responsiveness to the needs of all Nigerians. Strengthening its intellectual framework through organisations like The Progressive Institute will be vital to cementing its legacy beyond mere electoral victories.
The examples of intra-party conflicts in Nigeria, from pre-independence politics to the contemporary struggles within major political parties like the PDP and APC, illustrate a persistent cycle of discord that continues to affect governance and the electoral process.
These historical contexts reveal that the current issues within parties do not exist in isolation but are part of a larger narrative that underscores the complexities of Nigeria’s political history. For Nigeria to foster a more stable, democratic environment, addressing these intra-party conflicts with a focus on unifying national interests over regional and personal ambitions remains imperative. As the nation continues to evolve, the challenge will be to cultivate a political landscape that prioritises collective goals, transparency, and genuine collaboration among its diverse peoples.
Ultimately, the future of Nigeria’s democracy may hinge on how effectively these two parties navigate their respective challenges in the coming years. The onus is on the PDP to reclaim its relevance and on the APC to lead with integrity, ensuring that the political landscape remains dynamic and responsive to the aspirations of its citizens.
By Shu’aibu Usman Leman,
(Former National Secretary,
Nigeria Union of Journalists)
Email: shuaibuusmanleman@yahoo.com
