Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, has called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to immediately expel any member allegedly pledging loyalty to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) while still claiming membership of the PDP.

Ortom made the demand during an interview on Channels Television, where he condemned what he described as the unacceptable practice of dual party allegiance within the opposition.

“You cannot be in PDP and another party,” Ortom said firmly. “We have instructed for their expulsion. It’s not feasible to maintain dual party memberships. One must choose to remain in PDP if that is their preference.”

Although Ortom did not mention specific names, his comments come in the wake of heightened tensions within the PDP following the emergence of an ADC-led coalition. Several prominent politicians from the PDP are believed to be supporting the coalition while still holding on to their PDP membership cards.

Among those under scrutiny is Ortom’s political ally and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Wike has faced persistent criticism for openly aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), especially after endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 general elections and more recently hinting at support for Tinubu’s reelection bid in 2027.

“Just today, I met someone campaigning for a coalition,” Ortom revealed, stressing that he has since reaffirmed his full commitment to the PDP. “The party must be decisive. We can no longer accommodate this level of political contradiction.”

The PDP is yet to issue an official statement on the status of members reportedly involved in the ADC coalition or the potential disciplinary measures being considered.

Meanwhile, the crisis further exposes the cracks within Nigeria’s main opposition party, as internal disagreements and conflicting loyalties continue to hinder efforts to build a cohesive front ahead of the 2027 elections.