The Kabiru Turaki-led national working committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has presented expulsion certificates to 11 senior party figures, including Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The expelled members — among them Ayodele Fayose, former Oyo governor; Samuel Anyanwu, former national secretary; Umar Bature, former national organising secretary; Kamaldeen Ajibade, ex-national legal adviser; and Mao Ohuabunwa, former federal lawmaker — were removed from the party during the PDP’s November 15 elective convention in Ibadan, Oyo state.
Others affected include Austine Nwachukwu, former Imo PDP chairman; Amah Nnanna Abraham, former Abia PDP chairman; Dan Orbih, former national vice-chairman (south-south); and Turnah George.
The certificates were distributed on Tuesday in Abuja following the formal handover from outgoing PDP national chairman Umar Damagum to his successor, Turaki.
However, none of the expelled members were present to collect their certificates.
Turaki emphasised that the NWC’s actions were driven by a renewed commitment to restoring discipline within the party.
“These actions were necessary to cleanse our ranks of elements who have consistently worked against the PDP’s interests, including holding parallel congresses, sponsoring litigations, and canvassing votes for opposing parties,” Turaki said.
“With these certificates, the affected individuals are free to continue to align with any political platform of their choice, but they can no longer claim membership in the PDP.
“The PDP will never die. This party is bigger than any individual or group. Those who have chosen to dine with our opponents while still wearing our colours have been shown the way out.
“This is the beginning of a disciplined, united, and purposeful opposition that will rescue Nigeria in 2027.”
Plateau governor Caleb Mutfwang and Adamawa governor Ahmadu Fintiri had opposed Wike’s expulsion.
Meanwhile, the expelled members have established a parallel NWC and board of trustees (BoT), deepening the division within the party and creating two rival factions.