The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, signaling its intention to impose sanctions against him for actions deemed detrimental to the party’s interests.
Umar Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, made this declaration during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, highlighting the escalating crisis in Rivers State between Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the catalyst for this decision.
The ongoing feud between these political figures has resulted in a significant defection, with 25 PDP lawmakers in the state crossing over to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Additionally, seven commissioners have tendered their resignations in response to the escalating tensions.
The situation deteriorated to the extent that President Bola Tinubu facilitated a peace accord between the feuding parties following a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, endeavoring to mitigate the rift over political control and financial matters in the state.
It is noteworthy that during the 2023 presidential election, Wike and the G-5 governors were reported to have worked against the PDP’s chosen presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. Wike threw his weight behind President Bola Tinubu, while former governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State reportedly supported the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State was said to have aligned with Tinubu.
In response to these actions, Damagum emphasized that the PDP would not hesitate to impose sanctions on any of its members working against the party’s best interests. He stated, “We are not unmindful of the fact that it’s not only Wike; there are other people that have also worked against the party. When we get to that level, we will sanction everybody. If Wike believes he is above this party, we will show him he is not above this party.”
The PDP’s firm stance underscores its commitment to upholding party loyalty and discipline, sending a clear message that actions contrary to the party’s objectives will not be tolerated, regardless of the individual’s political standing.
This decision marks a significant development in Nigerian politics, highlighting the importance of party cohesion and unity as the nation navigates a complex and dynamic political landscape.
