My Stance On PDP Is Clear – Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring that his position within the party remains firm and unambiguous.

Wike who stated this at the 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of PDP, emphasized his long -standing loyalty despite political pressures.

Wike recalled his experience as a governor in opposition, noting that he faced numerous challenges but remained resolute in defending his principles and party affiliation.

“When I was the governor, there was nothing the ruling party that time did not beg me. I said, no.There was no threat I did not get. I said, no. There was no intimidation I did not get, I said, no. I remained.

“I said, I was not going to leave this party, no matter how you do it. And I will not. So those who know my position know my position.It’s not about propaganda. No! ” Wike declared

Speaking on the need for discipline and unity as the party prepares for critical political engagements.Wike urged members to demonstrate loyalty and commitment to the party’s ideals.

He stressed the importance of quality representation over mere numbers, insisting that integrity and dedication should define leadership within the PDP.

“Even if we have only two senators, it’s good to have two quality senators than having quantity.”

Wike further noted that the PDP possesses a strong and extensive structure from the grassroots to the national level, which can translate into electoral victories if properly harnessed.

He emphasized that internal cohesion remains the key to unlocking the party’s full potential. According to him, strengthening unity within the party is essential ahead of the forthcoming national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026.

He however issued a stern warning to members who may be reluctant to fully commit to the party’s activities, particularly the convention process.

Wike made it clear that fence-sitting would not be tolerated, stressing that loyalty must be demonstrated through action. He insisted that the party would proceed with its plans regardless of dissenting voices.

“You don’t want us to hold convention, No, it’s not possible.We will hold convention. I want to tell you… after this NEC meeting, anybody that doesn’t show commitment to the convention after the convention, don’t come back and tell us that “I am fully back.’ No, I will not accept that,” Wike said.

Wike also clarified that reconciliation efforts within the party should not hinder the conduct of the convention, adding that the election of a permanent National Working Committee is necessary to bring stability and progress to the party.

According to him, peace-building initiatives can continue alongside institutional processes without disrupting party activities.

“Elect permanent national working committee. Then, from there, we move on. That’s the way it’s supposed to be done. So, let nobody say that, why are they doing convention when there’s a peace talk. Peace talk does not stop anything.

“Part of the peace talk is that there are those who have been expelled from the party, or suspended from the party. So there’s a need to reconcile and bring them back.It’s not to say, oh, don’t do convention.”

He called on the National Working Committee to intensify reconciliation efforts, noting that disagreements are inevitable but must be properly managed.

Wike stressed the importance of genuine commitment from members, warning that reconciliation cannot be forced on unwilling individuals.

“When two brothers fight, there is always time for reconciliation… but let them show genuine commitment. You can drag a horse to the stream, but you cannot force it to drink water,” Wike stated.

“I don’t want those who want to use the party to get tickets and dump it afterward. It must be about sincerity whether you get a ticket or not, you remain committed to the PDP,” he added.

Addressing concerns among aspirants, Wike dismissed fears of lacking support from sitting governors, asserting that electoral success is rooted in grassroots connection rather than elite endorsement.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji