The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Sunday declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been taken back by loyal members, blasting defectors, asserting control of the party, and taking a swipe at opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The remarks, delivered at the PDP’s 10th Elective National Convention in Abuja, captured what party leaders are pitching as a turning point, an attempt to move past months of internal crisis, reassert control, and reset the party for 2027, even as rival camps and opposition forces continue to circle.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a key power broker within the PDP, used the convention to frame the moment as both a victory over internal turmoil and a reset of leadership within the party.
“Today marks the rebirth of our party in a new form. Today is the birth of a united party, ready to move forward,” he said.
The convention, which was monitored by the electoral umpire, was cited by Wike as proof that the party had regained institutional footing after a prolonged dispute over its leadership.
“We have seen the convention monitored by the electoral umpire… which also tells you the importance of this gathering,” he said, commending those who organised the exercise.
Wike then shifted to a more pointed message, drawing a clear line between members who stayed through the crisis and those who left.
“Leadership is not easy. It requires courage, firmness and commitment. What we have seen, some governors leaving, only shows a lack of leadership. When crises arise, true leaders stand and resolve them; they do not run away,” he said.
He praised party members, especially at the grassroots, for staying loyal despite the uncertainty that surrounded the PDP in recent months.
“When push came to shove, you refused to be discouraged. When some who claimed to be leaders threatened and intimidated you, you endured. Through your perseverance and faith, you have brought us to this moment, and here we are, victorious,” Wike said.
At the heart of his message was the claim that the party had been restored to its base.
“More importantly, we have reclaimed and returned the party to its rightful owners, the people,” he declared.
Even so, Wike left the door open for those who left the party, urging them to return, but on the basis of unity and discipline.
“Our brothers and sisters who may have left should return and join us in rebuilding this party for the collective good. No one will be excluded; everyone will have an opportunity to serve in unity and in law,” he said.
Then, widening the target beyond his party, Wike turned his fire on the opposition, including Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate.
“What you have seen happening, the actions of a faction of some governors who have walked away, only shows that they lack a sense of leadership.
“I liken them to the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party. That candidate was given a platform by the Labour Party to pursue the presidency, yet when a crisis arose within the party, it was precisely the moment leadership was required. Instead of stepping forward to resolve the problems, he could not, and failed to provide that leadership.
“In the same way, when our governors were seeking a platform to become governors, they found one and achieved their ambition. But when crises emerged, and it was time to demonstrate leadership, vision, and courage, they ran away. That tells you who can truly stand firm in difficult times.
“It is like a family: when you have a wife, or wives, and there are problems in your household, you do not abandon your family. You remain there and work to resolve the issues. That is why I thank all of you for your commitment. You have shown leadership, real leadership.
“Let no one assume that the achievements of the President will shield anyone. This is a period of accountability. You must demonstrate your responsibility and commitment, because when crises arise, some people flee. They seek positions, even aspire to lead the country, yet when faced with challenges, they withdraw,” the FCT MInister said.
Wike also looked ahead to the 2027 elections, expressing confidence that the PDP would remain a major contender.
“By the grace of God, the PDP will be there by March 2027,” he said.
He called on members to recommit to the party and strengthen internal structures to better reflect public expectations.
“As we move forward, we must create legitimate channels through which the voices of the people will be heard and respected.
“So we must be careful about such sub-national actors. As I have said here, whether you are from Taraba, Bayelsa, or anywhere else, return our mandate. Return our mandate, that is the message I have for you,” Wike said.
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