THE MINISTER of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will overcome its current challenges.
Wike made the assertion on Monday while hosting PDP stakeholders under the banner of the “Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP,” comprising representatives from the 36 states and the FCT, in Abuja.
Prominent attendees included former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu, Samuel Ortom of Benue, and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia.
Also present were the PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Philip Aduda. The meeting further included former federal and state lawmakers, as well as zonal and state party executives.
Addressing the gathering, the FCT Minister emphasized the imperative of preserving the PDP, describing the stakeholders as individuals dedicated to the party’s survival.
“All of you here are committed to the survival of our party — not merely speaking on television or in newspapers, but actively working for the party at various levels,” Wike stated.
He maintained that the actions of the G5 Governors had contributed to national stability, underscoring the necessity of adhering to both the party’s constitution and the Nigerian Constitution.
“You may like us or dislike us, but the reality is that without the G5’s decisive actions, this country would have faced a crisis,” Wike asserted. “Regardless of who benefited, the right decision was made, and we stand by it. We have consistently emphasized the need to respect the party’s constitution and that of Nigeria. Had the party heeded our counsel, we would not be in our current predicament.”
Wike further cautioned against impunity within the opposition party, noting that no successful opposition operates without discipline.
“Our duty is to foster unity and reconciliation, not to dismiss others with hostility. We must not allow greed or ego to destroy our party,” he advised.
In his remarks, former Governor Ortom emphasized Wike’s significant contributions to the PDP, challenging critics to name any individual who has done more for the party’s growth.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for recognizing the importance of a multi-party democracy, as demonstrated by Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister.
“PDP made critical errors, and that is why we find ourselves in this situation today,” Ortom stated.
The stakeholders’ meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening the party’s internal structures and upholding democratic principles. (NAN)
