Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has asserted that electoral success is the only legitimate foundation for any group claiming to be a true opposition party in Nigeria. During a visit to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat in Abuja on Friday, Wike met with members of the party’s newly constituted National Working Committee (NWC). He emphasized that credibility in opposition politics must be earned at the ballot box, stating, “You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those who say they are leading the opposition have not contested any election successfully.” Wike argued that electoral performance remains the definitive measure of political relevance in any democracy, dismissing the idea that political statements or coalition arrangements alone can confer opposition status.
The visit also served as an opportunity for Wike to reaffirm his support for the PDP leadership as the party seeks to recover from recent internal divisions. “My coming here is to reassure you of my support. I have come to pledge my loyalty to the National Working Committee,” he remarked. Acknowledging the party’s recent crisis, Wike noted that efforts are underway to rebuild unity and stability within the PDP. “Yes, we have a crisis, and we have almost come out of it. It will require hard work and sacrifice to move the party forward,” he added.
Wike urged the leadership to prioritize reconciliation, particularly by reaching out to members who have left the party. “Reach out to them. Most are concerned about opportunities, including tickets. You know what to do,” he advised. He also encouraged the leadership to remain focused despite ongoing political and legal challenges, expressing confidence in the party’s resilience. “We have defeated them at the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. The same God will see us through. Stay focused and work as a team,” he stated.
In response, PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed reiterated the leadership’s commitment to repositioning the party and regaining public trust ahead of future elections. This exchange underscores the PDP’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its position as Nigeria’s main opposition force following internal turbulence and recent electoral setbacks.
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