I Am Interested In Oyo PDP Affairs – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has declared his keen interest in all activities of the Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike, who made the declaration on Monday at the 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP held in Abuja, insisted that his concern is solely focused on the survival, stability, and success of the party nationwide.

Wike spoke extensively on the party’s internal challenges, the ongoing legal disputes, and the path forward in rebuilding the opposition party ahead of future elections.

“Let me declare my interest clearly: I am interested in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in all the happenings in Oyo State PDP. That is all I am interested in,” Wike said.

Addressing concerns about intimidation and internal threats, Wike dismissed claims that any individual or group could cow party members into submission, stressing that the party’s legal battles had effectively collapsed.

According to him, they will not allow vampires to take over the affairs of the party across the 36 states of the federation, including the FCT.

“Some of us, by the grace of God, do not see what anyone can threaten us with. The legal battle has collapsed. They have no option but to recognise the Caretaker Committee,” Wike said.

Wike said the party was now waiting for the Caretaker Committee to issue clear directives, particularly on the conduct of overdue congresses, which he described as critical steps towards organising a credible National Convention.

The FCT Minister warned party members against viewing the PDP as a charity organisation, urging them to return to the grassroots and rebuild the party from the ward and polling unit levels.

“Go to the wards. Go to the polling units. Go to the grassroots. Forget the idea that this is a charity organisation. Many people move from place to place without any political identity,” he cautioned.

According to him, the PDP remains a formidable political force despite its current challenges. “The PDP is too strong—very strong. We must capitalise on what we have and move forward.”

While acknowledging calls for peace by the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the National Working Committee (NWC), Wike urged party leaders and members to remain vigilant, warning that attempts to destabilise the party were ongoing.

“Yes, the BoT has appealed for peace. Yes, the NWC has appealed for peace; that is their responsibility. But those of us following the process must be extremely careful. We must be vigilant,” he said.

Wike further urged the party to rely on experienced and competent Legal Advisers and the National Organising Secretary to strengthen the party as Nigeria’s leading opposition platform.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji