The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed mounting accusations that he is fueling internal disunity within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting instead that his actions are aimed at preserving and strengthening the party’s integrity.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike firmly defended his role in ongoing PDP controversies, insisting that he remains a loyal stakeholder dedicated to building the party — not tearing it down, as critics have alleged.
“No, I’m not tearing the PDP apart; I am building it,” Wike declared. “The real issue is that some people are uncomfortable because they know I will not sit back and watch the constitution be trampled on.”
Wike’s remarks come amid growing internal turmoil within the PDP, particularly around disputes over party leadership and constitutional adherence. He specifically cited confusion regarding the rightful holder of the office of National Secretary and its implications on key party processes.
According to him, “The party’s constitution is clear — all correspondence to INEC must be signed by either the National Chairman or the National Secretary. If there is confusion about who holds the position of National Secretary, it can result in legal battles that weaken the party.”
He referenced the forthcoming Area Councils election in Abuja as an example. “If Anyanwu is not signing the list and someone else signs it, INEC will be dragged to court. So, how do we go into elections in this situation? We must avoid such chaos,” he warned.
The former Rivers State governor also criticized attempts to convene the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) without due process, saying any notice not issued by a properly recognized secretary would be legally challenged.
“You want to host NEC — who issues the notice of NEC? If another person issues it and not the National Secretary, I will challenge it. That is the law, and even the Supreme Court has spoken on this,” Wike emphasized.
The FCT Minister’s strong statements are the latest in a series of public commentaries that have laid bare the PDP’s internal fractures. Wike, known for his assertive political style, has increasingly positioned himself as a defender of constitutionalism within the party, even while accepting a ministerial appointment under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
His critics argue that his closeness to President Bola Tinubu and the APC undermines PDP’s credibility as an opposition party. But Wike maintains that his appointment does not diminish his loyalty to the PDP — a party he claims to have worked tirelessly to defend, even when its leadership faltered.
“If we truly want the party to survive, then sacrifices must be made. The internal sabotage must stop,” he added.
Observers believe Wike’s persistent public criticism of PDP leadership — coupled with recent defections and realignments — could shape the party’s fate ahead of the 2027 general elections. He had earlier warned that “selfish interests” within the PDP could destroy its electoral prospects if not urgently addressed.
This latest confrontation further indicates that deep-rooted leadership tussles and unresolved grievances continue to plague the PDP, threatening its stability and relevance as Nigeria’s main opposition platform.
Wike’s comments on Monday serve as both a warning and a declaration of intent — he will not stand idle if due process is ignored within the PDP. Whether his insistence on constitutional order will unite or further polarize the party remains uncertain.
One thing is clear: the road to 2027 will be bumpy for the PDP unless it urgently addresses the internal discord that threatens its survival.