As the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) intensifies efforts to rebuild and reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State Governor, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has warned the party against repeating political missteps that led to its defeat in 2023.
Wike, speaking during a media chat on Monday, expressed deep concern over what he described as persistent miscalculations and internal exclusion threatening the party’s chances in future elections.
He cited the ongoing tussle over the party’s national secretary position as a clear example, asserting that Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the legally recognized secretary until a valid national convention says otherwise.
“I will challenge the outcome of any NEC meeting held without Senator Anyanwu as secretary,” Wike warned, noting that the Supreme Court had already voided the appeal court ruling which removed Anyanwu.
In a broader critique of the PDP leadership, Wike lamented the party’s tolerance for impunity and failure to behave like a serious opposition force capable of challenging the ruling APC.
“No opposition party allows impunity that’s the hallmark of a ruling party. Yet here we are. Rather than rebuilding, they’re focused on Wike because I serve in an APC government. That’s my only crime,” he said.
He warned that if the PDP continues on its current path, dominated by “selfish interests, exclusionary politics, and internal manipulation,” it risks another major defeat.
“You want to repeat 2023 all over again? That smartness won’t help you. I’m telling you now: stop it before it’s too late,” Wike cautioned.
Despite his criticisms, Wike declined to reveal decisions reached at the Sunday night meeting of PDP governors and stakeholders, merely stating, “I wish the party well.”
Meanwhile, as part of its internal restructuring, the PDP on Monday inaugurated 39 new members into its Board of Trustees (BoT). The move is aimed at revitalizing the board, with more than half of the current 127 members reportedly inactive.
BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, described the reconstitution as a crucial step in the party’s journey toward reclaiming its lost glory.
“This moment is particularly significant as we prepare to navigate the evolving political landscape. With unity and determination, we can restore the PDP as Nigeria’s leading party,” Wabara stated.
The PDP Constitution mandates the BoT to act as the party’s conscience, upholding its moral standards, guiding policy, resolving disputes, and safeguarding assets.
Also on Sunday, the PDP Governors’ Forum established a 7-member committee led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki to lead final reconciliation efforts ahead of the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27.
Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, described the meeting as an opportunity to “close ranks and remove misgivings” among party leaders.
“There are some missing gaps here and there. The Saraki-led committee will ensure we have a rancor-free NEC and convention. Rather than weakening us, these challenges are pushing us to become stronger,” Governor Mohammed said.
On recent defections, he added, “It’s part of democracy, but we will consolidate our structures in states where we have history and capacity to win. We’re committed to providing a level playing field at the next convention.”
