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 November 15 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 pointed out that many of Wike’s concerns, initially met with resistance, have been accepted by the party. For instance, Wike’s position on the chairmanship of the party, which was initially disputed, ultimately led to the appointment of Damagum as chairman.
Olayinka also highlighted the Supreme Court’s judgment on the national secretary of the party, Samuel Anyanwu, which the party initially refused to obey. However, the party eventually came to accept Wike’s position on the matter. He stressed that while personal opinions about Wike may vary, the party’s constitution and internal affairs must be respected.
The Abuja Federal High Court’s ruling, which restrained the PDP from proceeding with its National Convention, was also cited by Olayinka. He 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, citing 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 this 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, the party’s internal conflicts and challenges are likely to continue, with significant implications for its future direction.
