Jacob Mark, a former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has downplayed the perceived political weight of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, within the PDP.
Mark believes that Wike’s influence is overstated and should not concern Peter Obi if the former Anambra State Governor chooses to return to the party.
During an appearance on Arise News, Mark dismissed the widespread notion that Wike controls the affairs of the PDP, asserting that such claims are not grounded in reality. He clarified that Wike has been absent from the party’s internal engagements for an extended period.
“Wike is not a functioning member of the PDP. He has not attended any party meetings in over a year,” Mark stated. “When people suggest he runs the PDP, I find it disturbing. It shows how little verification goes into such narratives.”
When asked whether Wike would support a move to bring Peter Obi—who is seen as a strong presidential hopeful for the 2027 elections—back to the PDP, Mark reiterated that the FCT Minister lacks the influence people often attribute to him.
Mark was speaking from Kaduna, where he was attending a state caucus meeting ahead of an upcoming bye-election. He stressed that the party remains active and functional in several states without Wike’s involvement or endorsement.
“Here in Kaduna, and in many other states, we are running the PDP independently. Wike holds no sway over our operations. Politically speaking, he has no presence in our structure,” he said.
While acknowledging that some individuals close to Wike may still occupy positions within the party’s national hierarchy, Mark maintained that this does not translate to Wike controlling the PDP.
“At best, Wike may have sympathizers within the National Working Committee or other influential bodies, but he does not run the party. The PDP is bigger than any one individual,” Mark emphasized.
He also commented on the recent realignment efforts by core PDP founders, noting that the party is gradually regaining focus and building a stronger foundation for the future.
“Thanks to renewed efforts by founding members, the PDP is reorganizing itself into a credible and united opposition. Nigerians will soon witness a more vibrant party that truly reflects their interests.”
Mark welcomed the departure of certain party figures, describing it as a necessary cleansing process that allows space for new and younger leadership to emerge.
“Some individuals had become roadblocks to progress. Their exit is an opportunity for others to rise. It’s time for a generational shift, and that’s what we’re beginning to see across the party.”
He further pointed out that Wike’s disengagement from the PDP is evident, not only through his absence at key meetings such as the National Executive Committee (NEC) sessions but also in his public support for rival parties.
“Wike has not attended NEC meetings in over a year. He has not participated in decision-making and has even openly supported opposition candidates. In states like Plateau and Benue, he is virtually irrelevant in our political landscape,” Mark said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Professor Jerry Gana, a respected founding member of the PDP, expressed strong confidence in Peter Obi’s political appeal—especially in the northern regions of Nigeria.
Speaking on Wednesday, Gana argued that Obi would enjoy overwhelming support if he were to contest for the presidency under the PDP platform.
“I’m a researcher; I study public opinion closely,” Gana said. “Based on empirical data and sentiment at the grassroots level, Peter Obi would defeat any opponent in the North. This is because people up there value integrity, fairness, and competence.”