The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been “taken back” by loyal members, signaling what he described as a fresh start for the opposition party amid lingering internal crises.
Speaking at the PDP’s 10th Elective National Convention in Abuja—an event monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—Wike asserted that the party had regained stability and institutional legitimacy following months of leadership disputes.
“Today marks the rebirth of our party in a new form,” Wike said. “It is the birth of a united party ready to move forward.”
Swipe at Defectors, Opposition Figures
Wike took a strong stance against party members who defected during the crisis, accusing them of lacking leadership and resilience. He emphasized that true leadership requires courage during difficult times, not withdrawal.
In a pointed remark, he also criticized Peter Obi, drawing parallels between opposition leadership struggles and the actions of PDP defectors.
“When crises arise, true leaders stand and resolve them; they do not run away,” he said, likening political leadership to family responsibility, where challenges must be confronted rather than avoided.
Despite the criticism, Wike extended an olive branch to aggrieved members, urging them to return to the party under the principles of unity and discipline.
Party Leadership Calls for Unity
Earlier, the PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, described the convention as a defining moment, urging members to prioritize collective interest over personal ambition.
“No ambition is greater than this party,” he said, stressing the importance of constitutional order and inclusiveness in rebuilding the PDP.
Warnings Over Internal Divisions
Former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, warned that failure to reconcile internal divisions could threaten the party’s survival.
“The duty of genuine reconciliation is not optional; it is fundamental,” Ikpeazu said, urging immediate action to unify the party ahead of future elections.
Similarly, former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, appealed to defectors to return, reflecting on the party’s historical role in fostering national unity since its formation in 1998 following the fallout of the June 12, 1993 election crisis.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The convention comes at a critical time as Nigeria’s political landscape begins to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections. With internal reconciliation still a key challenge, PDP leaders are projecting unity while attempting to reposition the party as a viable opposition force.
Wike’s remarks, however, underscore ongoing tensions within the party, even as its leadership pushes a narrative of renewal and consolidation.
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