A former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Jacob Mark, has dismissed claims that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, wields control over the party, saying such narratives are exaggerated and misleading.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Mark addressed concerns that Wike, who is currently serving in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, could pose an obstacle to the return of Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, to the PDP.
He asserted that Wike has had no active role in PDP activities for over a year, nor does he exert influence in several states, particularly in the North.
“Wike is not a member of the PDP. For over a year, he has not attended any PDP meeting,” Mark said. “When I hear people say he’s in control of the PDP, I get worried. It’s either we’re too lazy to investigate or we are deliberately misinforming ourselves.”
Mark, who spoke from Kaduna where the state chapter was holding a caucus meeting ahead of a bye-election, stressed that the party at the grassroots level is operating independently of any Abuja-based influence.
“We are running the party in Kaduna without discussing who is feeding who in Abuja. The entire PDP structure here is focused on rebuilding and preparing for the election,” he said.
He further argued that Wike’s influence does not extend beyond a few personal connections in Abuja and that he is largely unknown in many states, especially in the North.
“Wike has zero influence in Kaduna State as far as PDP is concerned,” he stated. “Perhaps he has friends in the National Working Committee, or some people at the national level are doing his bidding, but that’s not control. His powers are overstated.”
Mark emphasized that the PDP is undergoing a process of reorganization and repositioning to offer Nigerians a credible opposition party. He described the exit of some high-profile members as a blessing in disguise.
“Some people leaving the PDP has opened up opportunities for others to grow,” he said. “You can’t have people who should be retired still wearing jerseys to play the match. Progress is about giving room for new players.”
Mark also criticized Wike for allegedly supporting PDP opponents in various elections, calling into question his loyalty to the party.
“He has openly boasted about supporting candidates against the PDP. So what kind of member is that?” he asked.
He concluded by reiterating that while Wike may claim to be a PDP member, his absence from key party activities and his alleged actions against the party suggest otherwise.
“In Abuja, maybe they have a relationship with him, but across many states like Plateau, Benue, and others, Wike is unknown,” Mark said.
The remarks come amid ongoing discussions within the PDP about rebuilding the party and potentially welcoming back former members ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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