PDP Wields Big Stick: Wike, Fayose, Others Expelled

Wike Fires Back: ‘They’re Intoxicated’

Ibadan: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday wielded the big stick at its 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, expelling heavyweight figures including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, in what party leaders described as a move to “sanitise the party” and purge elements accused of working against its interest.

But in a swift reaction, Wike dismissed the expulsion as a drunken charade. Through his aide Lere Olayinka, he branded PDP members who backed the move as “intoxicated”, mocking the convention as a “dirty December in November” and insisting the gathering was more of a social party than a serious political event.

The statement reads: “They went to Ibadan to start a dirty December in November. When people decide to start their own dirty December in November, one can’t help but ignore whatever comes out of their mouths.

“They gathered in Ibadan to have a social party, enjoyed themselves and got intoxicated; they are free to say anything”.

Among those axed and shown the exit are: former National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu; former National Legal Adviser to the party, Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN), Austin Nwachukwu, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, George Turner and Umar Bature.

The motion for expulsion was moved by former Deputy National Chairman and Lagos PDP leader Chief Olabode George at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan.

The motion was ratified instantly, sparking wild jubilation among delegates across the nation. George declared the decision was necessary, citing “activities aimed at destroying the party.”

Senator Ben Obi raised a motion to make the gathering elective, and it was seconded by Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN).

Highlights of the Convention included the elective convention, state structure, and the National Working Committee (NWC).

Governor Seyi Makinde moved for the ratification of executive committees across states, exempting Imo, Abia, Enugu, and Rivers, while delegates voted to dissolve the current National Working Committee. And several sections of the PDP constitution were amended to strengthen internal governance.

This mass expulsion marks one of the boldest disciplinary actions in PDP’s history, signalling a new era of internal cleansing. With Wike and Fayose—two of the party’s most recognisable figures—out, the PDP is attempting to reassert control, rebuild unity, and reposition itself ahead of future political battles.