More Troubles for Sokoto PDP as Wike Faction Appoints Caretaker Committee

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State finds itself in yet another turbulent chapter, as the National Working Committee (NWC) has approved the dissolution of the state executive committee and the appointment of a new caretaker committee. This move, spearheaded by loyalists of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, signals a deepening internal rift within the party, mirroring the broader national challenges the PDP has been grappling with.

The newly formed caretaker committee, headed by Hayatu Tafida as chairperson and Ahmad Pawa as secretary, is seen by some as an attempt to assert control within the state chapter. However, the incumbent chairman, Bello Goronyo, has vehemently opposed this decision. Goronyo, who was elected and re-elected, insists that his tenure is far from over and that he will only step down when his term officially concludes. He has publicly urged PDP members in Sokoto to dismiss the caretaker committee announcement, branding it as an illegitimate move by a faction of the party.

This internal conflict within the Sokoto PDP is emblematic of the party's struggles nationwide. Having lost its grip on the state in the 2023 general elections, the PDP is the main opposition party, holding only a fraction of the legislative seats. The recent defection of former governor Aminu Tambuwal and several other key figures to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) further underscores the party's instability. The appointment of a caretaker committee, while a procedural response to perceived leadership vacuums or disputes, often exacerbates factionalism and raises questions about democratic processes within the party, particularly when challenged by the incumbent leadership.

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I'm the only PDP chairman in Sokoto State. I was elected, and only when my tenure ends that’ll vacate office. They can’t sack me, only the court can do that.