FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain confident as the 2027 general elections approach, insisting that the absence of PDP governors in some states should not discourage aspirants.
Speaking at the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Wike dismissed concerns about electoral chances in states where the party lacks gubernatorial control.
“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.
*Convention Will Hold as Planned*
The former Rivers State governor assured party faithful that the PDP’s planned national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, would go ahead without disruption.
According to him, all necessary requirements have been fulfilled, expressing optimism that the party would witness a wave of returning members in the coming days.
He also expressed satisfaction with the turnout at the NEC meeting, noting that it reflected growing recognition among members of what he described as the “authentic” faction of the party.
On internal party unity, Wike urged PDP leaders to sustain reconciliation efforts, particularly by engaging members who had been suspended or expelled.
“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,” he said.
He, however, stressed that such efforts must be sincere and not driven by personal political ambitions.
“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.
*Wike Takes Swipe at Makinde, Defectors*
The FCT minister also criticised some PDP leaders, including Seyi Makinde, and others who have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He rejected past allegations that he was working for the APC, pointing instead to the shrinking number of PDP governors.
“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.
In a pointed remark directed at Makinde, he added:
“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.”
*‘No Blackmail Will Change Us’ — Wike*
Reaffirming his commitment to the PDP, Wike said he would remain in the party regardless of internal challenges.
“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,” he said.
He concluded by reiterating the need for dedication among party members as the PDP prepares for the 2027 elections.
