Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued fresh conditions for reconciliation in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warning that the party must reverse certain “unjust” decisions before proceeding with its planned November national convention.
Speaking during his monthly television interview, Wike insisted that the removal of Chief Dan Orbih as PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South) must be reversed and that the results of the Calabar South-South Zonal Congress be upheld.
“Dan Orbih remains the National Vice Chairman for South-South. If they don’t agree, that’s an error on their part. If they want another round of crisis, so be it,” Wike declared.
The former Rivers governor accused some party leaders of impunity and warned that ignoring the Calabar congress outcome would further deepen the PDP crisis.
Wike reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a courageous leader for removing fuel subsidy on his first day in office.
“Why wouldn’t I support a southern candidate or even President Tinubu, if he’s running again? That is bold leadership,” he said, adding that competence would be his main criterion for supporting any presidential candidate, regardless of party.
He criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for what he described as “opportunistic defections” between PDP and APC, questioning Atiku’s calls to “rescue Nigeria.”
Wike maintained that impunity, disregard for internal rules, and court orders are at the heart of the PDP’s troubles. He cited the case of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, whose position as National Secretary was challenged despite a court ruling in his favour.
He vowed to remain in the PDP and “fight from within”, dismissing suggestions that he is fuelling crises in other parties, including Labour Party.
On Rivers State’s controversial local government elections and talk of emergency rule, Wike defended the legality of appointing sole administrators pending elections, citing constitutional provisions and Supreme Court rulings.
He also downplayed concerns over a possible PDP-APC power-sharing arrangement in Rivers, saying political cooperation should not be condemned if it fosters peace.
