Psychiatrists Needed In Politics — Commonwealth Director

The Director of the Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies, Professor Anthony Kila, has criticised the recent internal clashes within the Peoples Democratic Party, saying they reveal deep-rooted dysfunction in Nigeria’s political system.

Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, Kila said the conduct of party leaders during the parallel meetings at Wadata Plaza showed a breakdown of civility, democratic standards, and internal order.

“What we witnessed there is a show of shame in terms of form and process. The issues they are raising may be legitimate, but the behaviour highlights the weaknesses of Nigeria’s partisan political elite,” he said.

He condemned the use of security operatives as tools of intimidation during the confrontation, noting, “The fact that these individuals can use police officers as thugs, shout, push one another, and resort to expelling and fighting shows they are not aligned in purpose… they are simply people seeking power.”

Kila added that Nigerian politics lacks the professional support it requires.

“A lot of psychiatrists are not in the places where they should be. It might actually be useful to introduce a law requiring every party to have a lead psychiatrist to address internal issues,” he suggested.

He stressed that the problem extends beyond the PDP.

“This is the PDP today. It could be any other political party tomorrow. Most parties in Nigeria share these uncivilised, inappropriate, and uninspiring characteristics. This should be treated as a systemic issue, not merely a PDP matter,” he stated.

The confrontation followed the arrival of factional National Chairman Kabiru Turaki and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who attended separate NEC and BoT meetings, leading to a tense standoff that required a significant security presence.

The tension had already escalated after last Saturday’s convention in Ibadan, where several prominent members, including Wike, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, former Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose, and Austin Nwachukwu, were expelled over allegations of anti-party conduct.

In retaliation, the faction loyal to Wike expelled Bode George, former BoT Chairman Adolphus Wabara, and Turaki himself, deepening the crisis.

Kila stressed the need for a strong and stable opposition to protect democracy.

“Let us begin by saying that the reason we are discussing the PDP this morning is not because of support for or opposition to the party. It is because anyone who respects institutions and cherishes democracy should be concerned about the health of the opposition,” he said.

He also addressed Wike’s call for the PDP to back an APC presidential candidate, saying it should follow proper procedure.

“It is legitimate for Minister Wike to say he wants his party to support an APC president. But the correct approach is to hold proper discussions… If the party accepts, then they support him. If they do not, that becomes a minority report,” Kila explained.