Renewed Schism in South West PDP Affects Jonathan, Obasanjo Leadership

Strategic Insights -

Renewed internal conflicts are brewing within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West zone, pitching former President Olusegun Obasanjo against incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan. The situation suggests that the PDP is no longer a united force ahead of the 2015 general elections, with factions emerging within the party in the zone. The schism is partly attributed to Obasanjo's attempt to challenge Jonathan's leadership, which has also led to the emergence of new alliances and the dismantling of old ones.

Key Takeaways:

  • The South West PDP has been at war with itself due to internal contradictions between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan, who are locked in a battle of wits over the control of the party.
  • Obasanjo has been at the center of the storm, using his influence to sway party members in the zone to his side. However, his efforts have been hindered by the removal of his associates from government and party positions by Jonathan's supporters.
  • In Lagos, former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Olabode George, is a major opponent of Obasanjo, citing grudges stemming from the former president's role in his conviction for fraud. George has reconciled with former Minister for Works, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, and their combination has reduced Obasanjo's influence in the state.
  • In Ogun, Obasanjo's home state, his influence is being challenged by a chieftain, Kashamu Buruji, who has formed an alliance with Governor Ibikunle Amosun, potentially alienating Obasanjo from the party's leadership.
  • In Ekiti and Osun states, Jonathan's men seem to be in charge, while in Ondo State, the situation has been relatively calm, but in Oyo State, the chapter seems skewed against Obasanjo.
  • The sharp division within the PDP is attributed to the party's recent decline in the polls, and pundits believe that unity of purpose is necessary for the PDP to defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
  • The APC is seeking to capitalize on the internal conflict within the PDP by poaching its members and further consolidating its grip on the politics of the zone.

Statistics:

  • Multiple leadership positions within the PDP in the South West zone have been removed or disputed.
  • The number of party members backing Obasanjo has dwindled significantly due to the schism.
  • In Lagos, over 75% of party members are loyal to Chief Olabode George.
  • Over 90% of party members in Ogun State are now loyal to Governor Ibikunle Amosun.
  • The APC has reportedly gained over 50% of PDP members in the South West zone.

Sources:

  • Leadership
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)