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By Lawrence Agbo
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has called for unity within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urging members to reject what he described as “fear politics” ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Wike encouraged members interested in contesting elective positions to remain confident, stressing that the absence of PDP governors in some states should not discourage participation.
“Those afraid that they will not win elections because they don’t have a governor from the PDP in their state, that is a lie. Remove fear from your body and have confidence,” he said.
He dismissed concerns that candidates could not win elections without the backing of sitting governors, insisting that such fears were unfounded.
According to him, party members must build confidence and actively engage in the political process rather than shy away.
The former Rivers State governor also assured stakeholders that the PDP’s planned national convention, scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, would go ahead as planned.
He stated that all necessary arrangements had been concluded and expressed optimism that several members who had previously left the party would soon return.
Wike further maintained that the growing turnout at party meetings signalled renewed commitment among loyal members, adding that those genuinely interested in the party’s progress were beginning to align with what he described as the “authentic” leadership of the PDP.
On reconciliation efforts, the minister urged party leaders to sustain dialogue and create room for aggrieved or suspended members willing to return.
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“It’s important for the party to hold peace talks so that those who have been expelled or suspended from the party can have discussions on how to bring them back in,” the minister said.
He emphasised that the process must be sincere and not driven by personal ambitions, warning that those who fail to show commitment before the convention may not be accommodated afterward.
“Let it be in sincerity and not just about those who would want to use us for personal purposes. After this NEC meeting, anyone who does not show commitment and comes after the convention, we will not accept that. You must know where you stand now,” he added.
In a sharp remark, Wike also took a swipe at some PDP leaders, including Seyi Makinde, and others who have recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“They were accusing me of working for the APC. Where are they today? We had 13 governors… today, how many do we have? They all ran away because they were defeated,” Wike said.
“I was watching my friend today, Seyi Makinde, during his visit to the Bauchi State governor… You wanted to be a contractor, and I wanted power.
“You got contracts from Chevron, why didn’t you stay there and leave us to do our job? If you are not ready to play it, go home and rest. We are ready to have sleepless nights.
He questioned their earlier criticisms of him, noting that while he remained in the PDP, many of his critics had left the party.
Reaffirming his loyalty, Wike said he had no intention of leaving the PDP, stressing his commitment to genuine reconciliation and the rebuilding of the party ahead of future elections.
“No blackmail will change us. I said what I said. Even if we have two senators, it is good we have two quality people than a multitude. I said I was not going to leave the party, and I will not. I believe in true reconciliation, and we will continue to have it even after the convention,” the former governor added.
