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Nigeria Politics
Professor Okey Ikechukwu Identifies Strategic Missteps Behind PDP's Lingering Divisions
Professor Okey Ikechukwu


The Executive Director of Development Specs Academy, Professor Okey Ikechukwu has offered a pointed analysis of the internal crisis rocking the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during an interview with Channels Television on Friday, June 13, 2025.

Speaking on the fallout from the party’s 2022 presidential primaries, Okey dissected the political calculations and decisions that, according to him, contributed to the division still lingering within the PDP.

He recalled that during the primary election, the key contenders included Atiku Abubakar, Nyesom Wike, and Aminu Tambuwal.

On the day of the primary election, Tambuwal withdrew from the race and declared support for Atiku, delivering a public speech that reinforced his endorsement.

This move, Okey explained, significantly altered the outcome.

However, Ikechukwu suggested that Wike was actually the front-runner before Tambuwal’s withdrawal.

He pointed out that this detail is often overlooked in discussions about the current party crisis.

He emphasized that the real issue began after the primary.

According to him, Atiku’s decision to appoint Tambuwal as the chairman of his campaign was a critical misstep that aggravated tensions.

He added that the choice appeared dismissive of Wike’s influence and standing in the party.

He noted that Atiku could have chosen another figure, such as Emeka Ihedioha, who would have been a more neutral and unifying option.

Okey said, "In the next election Atiku was there, Wike was there, and Tambuwal was there. Tambuwal got up and stepped down for Atiku, and also made a speech. So, with his vote and that of Atiku, they were able to beat Wike. But if you look at the votes Wike got at that primary, you will know that Wike was the one built up to take that ticket."

He added, "But there is a snag there, which nobody is paying attention to, and which is part of the PDP crisis today. Number one: after getting the ticket, what did Atiku do? He made Tambuwal chairman of his campaign. What do you think Wike would be feeling? You made a man they are angry with chairman of your campaign. He could have made Emeka Ihedioha the chairman, Emeka is just like Tambuwal."


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