, asserting that his efforts are aimed at reinforcing the party, not weakening it.){kind=link}
Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has rejected claims that he is contributing to the crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that his efforts are aimed at reinforcing the party, not weakening it.
During a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike addressed ongoing speculation about his role in the party’s internal conflicts and leadership uncertainty.
Critics have accused him of fueling disunity, but the former Rivers State governor dismissed such views.
“I’m not the problem. I’m helping to build the PDP,” Wike declared when asked about the turmoil in the party. “People are leaving because they are uncertain about who is authorised to endorse key documents. The party’s constitution clearly states that correspondence to INEC must come from the National Chairman or the National Secretary.”
Wike drew attention to the confusion over the rightful occupant of the National Secretary position, warning that unresolved disputes could disrupt upcoming electoral activities, such as local government elections.
He questioned, “In a situation where there’s doubt about who is the National Secretary, who will INEC recognise to sign off on important documents?”
The minister warned that ignoring constitutional guidelines could expose the party to legal setbacks.
He referenced past court cases to stress the importance of proper procedures.
“If someone else signs instead of Anyanwu, and the matter goes to court, it could invalidate our efforts. If we want the PDP to thrive, we must respect the constitution and make necessary sacrifices,” he advised.
Looking ahead to the scheduled National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, Wike stressed that only the National Secretary has the legal authority to issue a notice for the gathering.
“If anyone else sends out the NEC invitation, I’ll contest it in court. That’s what the law says, and the Supreme Court has upheld it,” he insisted.
Wike’s remarks reflect the widening cracks within the PDP’s leadership as the party works to resolve internal disputes before the next general election.
In an effort to address the growing tensions, PUNCH Online reported that a reconciliation meeting was convened Sunday night, led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki.
The meeting was attended by both current and past PDP governors, including Wike.