A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has rejected discussions on zoning arrangements proposed by Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Douye Diri of Bayelsa State. The disagreement centers on the party’s leadership structure ahead of its national convention. Sources within the Wike camp, speaking on August 21, 2025, accused Makinde and Diri of attempting to marginalize key stakeholders in the zoning process. The rift threatens to deepen the ongoing crisis within the PDP, with potential implications for the party’s unity ahead of the 2027 elections. A statement from a Wike loyalist described the zoning talks as 'a ploy to undermine equity,' though no specific resolutions or counter-proposals were detailed in the report. The situation remains fluid as both sides prepare for further negotiations in Abuja.
Punch Newspapers (MobilePunch) Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.), has described insecurity in Nigeria as a deeply political issue that has been left for the military to resolve. Speaking during an interview on August 22, 2025, Buratai emphasized that the root causes of insecurity, including banditry and insurgency, are tied to political and socio-economic grievances that require more than military intervention. He stated, 'The military can contain the situation, but lasting solutions must come from addressing political and governance failures.' Buratai also pointed out the need for better coordination between federal and state governments to tackle the issue holistically. The interview took place in Abuja amid growing concerns over rising violence in the North-West and South-East regions, where recent attacks have claimed dozens of lives.
Channels Television (channelstv) A deepening rift between Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde is creating uncertainty ahead of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention. Sources within the party reveal disagreements over zoning of key positions and control of party structures. At a recent meeting in Ibadan, Makinde reportedly said, 'We must prioritize unity over personal ambitions.' However, Wike’s camp insists on maintaining influence in the South-South region. Party stakeholders fear this conflict could split the PDP, impacting its chances in the 2027 elections.
Punch Newspapers (MobilePunch)