THE PERILS OF INTERNAL DIVISION: A Cautionary Tale For The PDP In Delta State

In the realm of politics, unity within a party is not merely a desirable quality; it is a necessity for survival and success. This principle becomes especially poignant when observing the current situation within the Delta State People's Democratic Party (PDP). The recent rumours about efforts to replace the incumbent governor should not be dismissed as mere political banter. They represent a critical juncture for the party, where the consequences of internal strife could lead to its own undoing.

It is one thing to hear members of the opposing political parties refer to the governor as a "one-term governor," but it is an entirely different and alarming situation when members of the governor’s own party echo such sentiments. This is not just a matter of political rhetoric; it is a reflection of deeper issues within the party, issues that, if left unchecked, could lead to a catastrophic unravelling of the party’s structure and influence. The fact that such discord exists within the party at all suggests that there may be significant underlying problems that need to be addressed with urgency and care.

The history of the PDP is replete with examples of how internal divisions have weakened the party at critical moments. The 2022 presidential election serves as a sobering reminder. Atiku Abubakar’s decision to allow Peter Obi, a formidable force within the party, to exit was not just a tactical error but a strategic blunder that cost the party dearly. Furthermore, Atiku's refusal to remove Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, the then National Chairman, despite calls for his ousting for the sake of party unity, was another instance of how internal disagreements were allowed to fester, leading to a fractured party going into a crucial election. These decisions underscore a recurring problem within the PDP: a tendency to prioritize individual ambitions over collective good, leading to self-inflicted wounds.

A similar pattern emerged during the recent Edo State governorship election. The fallout between Governor Obaseki and his deputy governor, along with other aspirants within the party, created a climate of mistrust and disarray. This internal discord not only weakened the party’s campaign but also provided ammunition for the opposition, which capitalized on the PDP’s internal weaknesses. The result was a poor electoral performance, a stark reminder of how infighting can diminish a party's chances at the polls.

Delta State PDP must heed the lessons from these past experiences. Any attempt to replace the incumbent governor, particularly as elections approach, would be a strategic miscalculation of enormous proportions. Such a move would inevitably lead to a fracturing of the party's base, creating divisions that the opposition would be quick to exploit. While it is natural to have differing opinions within a political party, these differences must be managed through constructive engagement rather than divisive actions that threaten the party's unity.

The incumbent governor, like any leader, may have his shortcomings, but the solution lies not in ousting him but in offering mentorship, guidance, and constructive criticism. The focus should be on strengthening the party from within, building a cohesive strategy that addresses the electorate's needs, and presenting a united front in the face of political challenges. The stakes are too high for the PDP to indulge in self-destructive behaviour, particularly at a time when political stability is paramount.

Moreover, the PDP must recognize that solidarity is not just a tactical advantage but a moral imperative in a political landscape that is increasingly characterized by volatility and uncertainty. In a state like Delta, where the political terrain is complex and multifaceted, maintaining internal harmony is essential for the party to remain competitive. This is not the time for the PDP to be divided; it is a time for unity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to the greater good of the party and the state.

The Delta State PDP stands at a crossroads. The decisions made in the coming months will determine not only the party's immediate future but its long-term viability. Internal division has been the Achilles' heel of the PDP in the past, leading to electoral losses and diminished influence. The party must now choose a different path—one of unity, cohesion, and strategic foresight. By doing so, the PDP will not only strengthen its position in Delta State but also set an example of how internal challenges can be met with resilience and wisdom, rather than with actions that sow discord and weaken the party from within. The time to act is now, and the choice is clear: unity or division, success or failure.