The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Bode George over his claim of being one of the founding fathers of the party, questioning his political influence in Lagos State.
Speaking during his monthly media chat on Tuesday, Wike argued that despite George’s long-standing position in the PDP, the party has failed to secure significant electoral victories in Lagos since 1999.
According to the minister, political leadership should be measured by tangible achievements rather than titles.
“The same Bode George who says he is a founding father of the PDP and the conscience of the party—what conscience does he have when the party has not won a single seat in Lagos since 1999? You don’t become a founding father by mere declaration,” Wike said.
He added that while he had successfully built the PDP into a formidable political force in Rivers State, George had little to show for his influence in Lagos.
Wike also dismissed George’s allegations that he maintains improper relationships with judges and builds houses for judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory, describing the claims as baseless.
While acknowledging the respect traditionally accorded to elders, Wike insisted that political discourse should not shield anyone from criticism.
“In our culture, there are things elders say that younger people do not question. But politics is different because it is a contest for power. I will not allow anyone to make unfounded statements without responding,” he said.
The FCT minister further recalled George’s corruption trial, alleging that the PDP chieftain and his supporters celebrated before the court delivered its verdict.
“He has forgotten that when he was facing trial at the Lagos State High Court, his supporters had already sewn uniforms and were celebrating before judgment was delivered. Unfortunately for him, he was eventually convicted,” Wike stated.
The exchange marks the latest in a series of public disagreements between the two PDP stalwarts, reflecting the deepening divisions within the opposition party.
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