Makinde Betrayed Me, Alleges Wike as Saraki’s Reconciliation Efforts Collapse

The ongoing crisis within Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has deepened as former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, publicly accused Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, of betrayal.

This development comes amid the collapse of reconciliation efforts spearheaded by former Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Wike, who has been a vocal critic of the PDP’s leadership since the 2023 presidential election, expressed disappointment over what he described as Makinde’s abandonment of the G5 Governors’ cause.

The G5, a group of five aggrieved PDP governors formed in the run-up to the last general elections, had campaigned for internal reforms within the party and distanced themselves from the presidential campaign of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

According to sources close to Wike, the rift between him and Makinde widened after the Oyo governor attended recent PDP meetings with Atiku and other party leaders — a move Wike sees as a breach of their mutual understanding and loyalty.

Makinde’s silence on the political crisis engulfing Rivers State, where Wike is locked in a fierce battle for control with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has further strained the relationship.

Efforts to reconcile the warring factions within the PDP, led by Saraki, have so far proven unsuccessful.

Key stakeholders, including Wike and Makinde, reportedly declined invitations to attend unity talks with Atiku and members of the party’s National Working Committee.

Saraki, once seen as a bridge-builder within the PDP, has expressed frustration over the refusal of party leaders to put aside personal grievances in the interest of unity.

His recent attempts to broker peace have been met with resistance, raising concerns about the party’s ability to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Analysts warn that the PDP’s inability to resolve its internal disputes could damage its credibility and electoral chances in the future.

As the party grapples with growing divisions, there are increasing calls from within for an urgent leadership intervention to prevent a full-blown collapse.

The PDP has yet to issue an official statement on the latest developments. However, party insiders acknowledge the urgency of the situation and hint at further meetings aimed at salvaging what remains of the fractured alliance.