Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a leading figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, has urged party members to brace for a fierce political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that political power can only be won through determination, sacrifice and relentless struggle.
Speaking on Wednesday at the PDP’s 109th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Wike told party faithful that reclaiming power would require resilience, discipline and grassroots mobilisation rather than entitlement.
“Nobody gives power. Power is taken. You must fight for it to take it. Nobody is ready to hand over power to you. You have to struggle for it, and you must not be afraid,” Wike declared.
Reflecting on his own political journey, the former Rivers State governor encouraged aspirants to remain resolute in the face of intimidation, arrests and legal battles, insisting that political success is often built through adversity.
He also dismissed concerns over the party’s ongoing internal disputes and court cases, expressing confidence that the PDP’s preparations for the 2027 elections remain on track.
“As far as I am concerned, June 26 is when political parties will be given access codes to upload their candidates. Don’t worry, we are good to go. Nobody is afraid of the courts; courts are meant for human beings, not ghosts,” he said.
Wike observed that many members were still adjusting to life in opposition after years of governing, stressing that the party must adopt a new mindset if it hopes to regain power.
“So many people became used to coming to collect benefits when the PDP was in power, like spoiled children depending on what their father provided. Now that the father is sick, you think the whole world has ended,” he said.
The FCT minister challenged governorship aspirants, lawmakers and other candidates to focus on delivering tangible electoral victories instead of making excuses.
“Everybody should go back home, bring something to the table in 2027. If you deliver a House of Representatives seat, you have contributed. If you produce an Assembly member, you have contributed. This is not a place for empty hands,” he stated.
Wike further urged party members to remain steadfast despite political pressure, insisting that intimidation should not discourage those seeking elective office.
“If they want to arrest you, be strong. Those arresting you are human beings too. Use me as an example. I have experienced intimidation and everything that comes with politics,” he said.
Expressing optimism about the party’s future, Wike maintained that the PDP would remain a formidable political force despite its present challenges.
“After the 2027 elections, we will return here to thank God for keeping this party alive. We may not be in a position to win everything now, but a strong opposition remains relevant and helps shape the country’s future,” he added.
Earlier, PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed called on members to close ranks and work together ahead of the elections.
He commended party leaders, state chairmen and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for successfully conducting recent party primaries despite prevailing challenges.
Mohammed also acknowledged Wike’s continued support and guidance, saying the party’s objective extends beyond winning elections to providing purposeful leadership capable of addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
“Our goal is not merely to win elections but to provide visionary leadership that will improve the lives of Nigerians,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would provide a level playing field for all political parties and also praised security agencies for ensuring peaceful conduct during the party’s primaries.
Also speaking, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, appealed for reconciliation among party members, urging aspirants and supporters to move beyond the primary elections and unite behind the party’s candidates.
“The primaries have come and gone. The period of contest is over. This is the time for reconciliation, unity and collective action. There must be no victors and no vanquished,” Ohuabunwa said.
He further urged party leaders to intensify membership drives and voter registration efforts nationwide, stressing that victory in 2027 would depend largely on grassroots mobilisation, party unity and reconciliation.
“Our strength lies in our unity. When we work together, victory becomes achievable. When we are divided, our collective resolve is weakened,” he added.
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