Wike Predicts PDP Recovery Despite Current Challenges
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has defended his political positions and reaffirmed his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party, insisting the party would recover from its current challenges.
At a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike left no one in doubt about where he stands. “I am not going to pretend. I will do what I believe is right,” he stated.
The minister stressed the need for decisions that prioritise the welfare of the people. “We must focus on what truly serves the public,” he said.
He advocated for everyone in government to stick to their assigned responsibilities. “If I am the minister, let me function as the minister. If I am the senator, let me function as the senator. Everyone should play their role,” he said.
Turning to the fortunes of the PDP, Wike acknowledged his concerns but expressed strong belief in its future. “Yes, I am worried about my party. But do I believe the PDP will rise again? Yes, it will rise again,” he said.
Wike also challenged the belief that a presidential candidate needs the backing of many state governors to succeed. “This idea that someone must have 15 governors before he can be elected president is not correct,” he said.
He described leadership as a process that demands compromise and broad perspective. “Leadership is about give and take. You cannot always be right. I do not see any cause for alarm,” the minister said.
On his approach to his current assignment, Wike said he was determined to deliver but would not engage in populism. “If you want me to do this job, I will take it seriously. But I will not play to the gallery,” he said.
The minister pointed to tangible achievements in the Federal Capital Territory. “Whether you like me or not, you cannot deny what is happening on the ground. What gives me joy is going to the villages and seeing the happiness of the people. They can see the impact of government,” he said.
These remarks come as the PDP continues to grapple with a diminished presence across the country. The party, which controlled the federal government and most states from 1999 when Nigeria returned to democratic governance until 2015, has seen its influence wane significantly in the last 11 years due to internal crises and electoral losses.
Nigeria’s political landscape remains dominated by the All Progressives Congress, which is reported to control 30 states, while the PDP retains three. Other parties, including the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Labour Party, and Accord Party, each govern one state.