Wike defends PDP leadership role and warns FCT factional groups

Nyesom Wike, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has defended his role within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following accusations of acting as a “political undertaker.” He asserted that his actions are intended to strengthen the party rather than facilitate its destruction.

Addressing the ongoing internal rift, Wike issued a stern warning to seal any building in the FCT used as an office by factions opposed to his leadership. He specifically targeted the group known as the “Turaki” faction, challenging them to attempt to open new premises.

Enforcement of judicial and constitutional mandates

Wike denied allegations that he is dismantling the PDP, arguing instead that his decisions aim to enforce the party’s constitution and various Supreme Court rulings. He maintained that his actions are designed to compel compliance with court judgements, which he claims recognise the Abdulrahman-led faction as the legitimate leadership of the party.

The Minister further defended his current working relationship with President Bola Tinubu, despite the friction it has caused within his own party. He vowed to take over any property housing dissident groups, stating that his administration would “seal it up” immediately.

Polarised reactions to Ministerial stance

Public and political reactions to these developments remain deeply polarised. Supporters and aides of the Minister argue that his measures are not purely political but fall under his statutory duty to enforce land and tenancy laws. They allege that the Turaki-led faction has engaged in activities that defy established Supreme Court mandates.

Conversely, critics have expressed concern that these actions are pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state by stifling the opposition. Ahmed Tijjani Ramala noted the Minister’s aggressive stance against factional offices, while others expressed frustration that the worsening internal crisis signals the final collapse of the PDP.

Allegations of a ‘political undertaker’ agenda

Bode George, a PDP chieftain, has been a vocal critic, accusing Wike of acting as an “undertaker” tasked with destroying the party from within. George suggested that only President Tinubu possesses the authority to restrain the Minister’s actions.

Despite these accusations, Wike remains resolute, characterising his intervention as an essential enforcement of the rule of law. As the crisis deepens, many observers believe the Minister’s strategy is aimed at finalizing his control over the party’s institutional framework in the capital.