Makinde-backed PDP insists on primaries amid dispute with FCT Minister Wike
By Adejayan Gbenga
The interim leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), aligned with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has insisted that the party’s primaries and national convention will proceed as scheduled despite tensions within the party.
The leadership, chaired by Kabiru Turaki, dismissed efforts by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to disrupt the process, maintaining that the party remains firmly in control of its timetable ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the Interim National Working Committee, Ini Ememobong, the party said Wike’s recent comments required no rebuttal but instead warranted an apology to Nigerians over his conduct.
The statement accused the minister of making inflammatory remarks against notable Nigerians, describing his comments as inappropriate and damaging to public discourse. It added that the party regretted ever elevating him to public office, noting that his recent actions reflect “political frustration” rather than constructive engagement.
The PDP interim leadership also urged individuals allegedly defamed by Wike to seek legal redress, insisting that no one is above the law.
On internal party matters, the leadership dismissed claims that Wike holds influence over its structure, noting that no such position as “national leader” exists within the PDP constitution.
The party also maintained that preparations for the sale of nomination forms, primaries and the national convention are ongoing and will not be stopped by any individual or external pressure, adding that the process will produce a credible presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to legal issues raised by the minister, the PDP said it is awaiting certified court documents and challenged him to clarify his claims publicly, reaffirming that its activities will continue unhindered and that no amount of threats will derail the democratic process within the party.
