Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-09 03:22:37
The Lagos chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has once again found itself embroiled in internal strife, with new members attempting to oust some of the party’s longstanding leaders. This power struggle has further divided the party and weakened its ability to effectively act as an opposition force in the state. The ongoing turmoil within the Lagos PDP has been a recurring theme since 1999, hindering the party from fulfilling its role in holding the state government accountable and offering a viable alternative to the ruling party.
The recent attempt by a faction of new members to remove key figures such as Chief Bode George, Kofoworola Bucknor, Philip Aivoji, and Adedeji Doherty from the party has escalated tensions within the party ranks. If successful, this move could result in a significant shift in leadership, with the new members taking control of the party’s direction. This power struggle has not only alienated party members but has also undermined the party’s ability to present a united front to voters.
The internal crisis has had tangible consequences for the PDP’s effectiveness as an opposition party in Lagos State. The party’s inability to resolve internal conflicts has left it vulnerable to external criticism and has hampered its ability to effectively challenge the actions of the state government. The recent expose by the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Funsho Doherty, highlighted the need for a cohesive and united opposition party in the state.
Some party members have expressed concerns about the impact of the internal crisis on the party’s electoral prospects. Several party members who contested in the last general elections have attributed their poor performance to the alleged anti-party activities of the elders within the party. In response, they have taken legal action to compel the National Working Committee to expel the accused elders. This move has further exacerbated the internal divisions within the party.
The power struggle within the Lagos PDP has also spilled over to the state executive members, with conflicting loyalties and allegiances emerging within the party leadership. While some executive members have aligned themselves with the elders, others have thrown their support behind the new faction led by Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, also known as Jandor. This internal rift has further weakened the party’s cohesion and ability to present a unified front to voters.
Amidst the internal turmoil, Jandor has emerged as a central figure in the power struggle, declaring himself the leader of the party in Lagos State. This move has been met with mixed reactions, with some party members questioning Jandor’s legitimacy and authority to assume such a position. The Forum of PDP Local Government Chairmen in Lagos State has criticized Jandor for his divisive actions and for undermining the party’s established leadership structure.
Despite the controversy surrounding Jandor’s leadership claim, some party members have expressed support for his efforts to reinvigorate the Lagos PDP. They argue that Jandor’s leadership represents a fresh perspective and a potential opportunity to revitalize the party ahead of the 2027 elections. However, others remain skeptical of his motives and question his ability to unite the party and deliver electoral success.
In conclusion, the internal crisis within the Lagos PDP has highlighted the challenges facing the party in its efforts to act as a viable opposition force in the state. The ongoing power struggle and leadership disputes have weakened the party’s ability to present a united front to voters and hold the state government accountable. As the party continues to grapple with internal divisions, it must prioritize unity and reconciliation to regain the trust of the electorate and position itself for future electoral success.
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