Nigeria’s Political Parties’ Problems Are Self-Inflicted — Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has declared that the persistent crises within Nigeria’s political parties are largely self-inflicted.

Wike who stated this during his April monthly media parley monitored in Abuja, urged politicians to stop blaming institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary for their internal failures.

Wike stressed that disregard for due process, party constitutions, and court rulings remains the root cause of instability within many political parties.

“You cannot continue to violate laws and then turn around to blame INEC or the courts,” Wike said. “People should get it clear, institutions are not the problem when individuals refuse to comply with laid-down rules.”

He maintained that adherence to the rule of law is critical to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy, warning that selective obedience to court decisions could weaken the political system.

According to him, most disputes within parties stem from poor leadership, lack of internal democracy, and failure to follow established procedures.

On the strength of opposition parties, Wike said the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) currently lacks the financial capacity to sponsor a presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general election.

“As a party, the party does not have money,” he declared.

He advised aspirants to assess their personal capacity and preparedness before declaring interest in the presidency, noting that success in such a race requires structure, resources, and broad support.

“If, for example, I want to contest for president, I have checked myself, and I have something to start with…But nobody alone can stand and win the presidency.”Wike said

He added that financial backers and supporters are more likely to rally behind candidates with clear prospects of making an impact.

“Even supporters will only come to support when they know you have the chance to make any impact,” he said.

Wike also dismissed allegations that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is undermining opposition parties, insisting that such claims are exaggerated.

“It’s not correct that the current ruling party is killing the opposition, and I take exception to that,” he said.

He further described politics as a competitive but non-hostile engagement, urging stakeholders to move beyond grievances and work toward party unity.

“As far as I am concerned, the convention has come and gone. People are trooping in. I will say, the door is open. Yes, we have had a crisis. Now the crisis is over. Do we still have to shut our doors? No. Certainly not,” he said.

Wike cautioned against a “do-or-die” approach to politics, emphasizing that reconciliation and cooperation are essential for party growth.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji