Kenneth Okonkwo, a former spokesperson for the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, has made a claim regarding the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 2027 presidential ticket. According to Okonkwo, the PDP has effectively zoned its presidential ticket to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. This assertion was made during an appearance on Channels TV’s breakfast show on Friday.
Okonkwo alleged that Wike has been imposing his will on the PDP, citing instances where the former Rivers State governor openly worked against the party’s interests. He recalled a statement made by Wike, in which he claimed he would support the presidential candidate of another political party. Okonkwo also mentioned that Wike had disregarded the South East’s preference for Udo Okoye as the PDP’s National Secretary, instead insisting on Samuel Anyanwu, who eventually emerged in the position.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, which affirmed Anyanwu’s position, was seen by Okonkwo as a recognition of parties’ rights to choose their leaders, rather than an endorsement of Wike’s actions. Okonkwo described Wike’s conduct as anti-party, pointing to his statements about supporting another party’s presidential candidate. He questioned the rationale behind Wike’s actions, suggesting that the PDP has already chosen its presidential candidate and zoned the ticket to him.
Okonkwo’s claims come as the PDP prepares for the 2027 presidential election. The party’s internal dynamics and decision-making processes have been subject to scrutiny, with some members expressing concerns about the concentration of power and influence. The alleged zoning of the presidential ticket to Wike has significant implications for the party’s leadership and electoral strategy.
The developments within the PDP are being closely watched by political observers and analysts, who are eager to see how the party will navigate its internal challenges and position itself for the upcoming election. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the PDP’s actions and decisions will likely have a significant impact on the country’s political landscape.
