A faction within Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has declared that Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), is no longer recognized as a member of the party. The Conference of Professionals in the PDP (CP-PDP), a group representing party stakeholders, accused Wike of undermining the PDP’s internal processes and aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu.
This follows Wike’s recent remarks during a Monday media chat, where he reportedly attempted to influence the opposition party’s operations. The CP-PDP, in a statement, urged Nigerians to disregard his comments, describing them as “usual outbursts.” The group’s chairman, Obinna Nwachukeu, emphasized that Wike—a former governor of Rivers State—had forfeited his PDP membership by openly supporting Tinubu’s administration, which the statement labeled as “failed.”
“Wike is an appointee and apologist of this administration and should not be seen as a PDP member,” the statement read. “The PDP has moved past being controlled or bullied by individuals using divisive rhetoric.” The group defended the party’s leadership structure in two key regions, the South South and South East, asserting that both chapters were operating effectively without external interference. It dismissed Wike’s references to court orders challenging regional leadership as irrelevant, advising members to ignore such claims.
Wike’s political trajectory has drawn scrutiny since his appointment as FCT minister under Tinubu, a member of the rival APC. His frequent criticisms of the PDP and vocal alignment with the ruling party have fueled tensions within the opposition. The CP-PDP’s statement signals growing frustration among PDP loyalists over figures perceived as straddling party lines while holding positions in a rival government.
The PDP, which governed Nigeria for 16 years until 2015, faces internal divisions as it seeks to reposition itself against the APC. Analysts view the public rift with Wike as part of broader efforts to clarify the party’s identity ahead of future elections. The minister has yet to respond to the latest rebuke, but his recent actions suggest a deepening rift with his former party.
As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, the controversy underscores challenges opposition parties face in maintaining cohesion amid shifting allegiances. The CP-PDP’s stance reflects a determination to marginalize figures seen as undermining party unity, even as the PDP navigates its role in a contentious democratic environment.
