Wike Remains in PDP, Aide Insists Amid Party Crisis

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), according to his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka. Olayinka made this statement on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily amid confusion surrounding the party’s National Convention scheduled for 15 November in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Olayinka emphasized that Wike’s criticisms within the PDP are aimed at ensuring the party adheres to its constitution and does the right thing. He noted that many of Wike’s concerns, initially met with resistance, have eventually been accepted by the party. For example, Wike’s position on the party chairmanship, which was first disputed, ultimately led to the appointment of Damagum as chairman. Olayinka also highlighted the Supreme Court’s judgment on the party’s national secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, which the PDP initially refused to obey but later accepted Wike’s stance on the matter.

The senior aide stressed that, while personal opinions about Wike may vary, the party’s constitution and internal affairs must be respected. He cited the Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling that restrained the PDP from proceeding with its National Convention and noted that the party has already zoned its presidential ticket, contrary to its traditional practice of zoning positions to specific regions.

Olayinka dismissed claims that Wike is responsible for the crisis within the PDP, pointing to the example of former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido, who was denied a nomination form despite paying for it. He questioned whether Wike was behind that decision and emphasized the importance of allowing party members to freely express their right to contest.

The upcoming convention has been marred by controversy, with many PDP leaders unsure about the nomination process. Olayinka revealed that most leaders do not know where to obtain nomination forms, and the National Organizing Secretary is unclear about the contestants. These issues have raised concerns about the party’s ability to conduct a fair and transparent convention.

As the PDP prepares for its National Convention, internal conflicts and challenges are likely to continue, with significant implications for the party’s future direction.