FCT Minister Wike Declares PDP Crisis Temporarily Over

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that the crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is “temporarily over” following the departure of what he described as “buccaneers and vampires” from the party.

Speaking during a live media chat in Abuja on Monday, Wike credited his firm stance against impunity for the removal of disruptive elements within the PDP. However, he emphasized that the outcome of the recent South-South Zonal Congress—which saw Chief Dan Orbih elected National Vice Chairman—must be respected to avoid further conflict.

Wike was critical of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, accusing him of constantly switching parties in pursuit of presidential tickets. He claimed Atiku left the PDP because he knew he would not secure the party’s 2027 presidential nomination and is now attempting to get the ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“I said I would remain in the PDP, the party I have done everything for, rather than allow buccaneers and vampires to stay and take the ticket,” Wike stated.

Responding to whether the crisis is resolved, Wike said, “It is over for now, but certain conditions must be met. The South-South Congress must be upheld. Despite claims that PDP governors opposed it, the Congress took place in Calabar and produced Chief Dan Orbih as National Vice Chairman. This result is final, backed by the courts.”

He warned that if the decision is rejected, it would trigger another round of crisis. On the South-East Congress, which elected Ali Odefa, Wike said the result cannot stand due to court rulings affirming Odefa’s non-membership.

Wike called on PDP leadership to resolve outstanding issues before the national convention in November to prevent further unrest.

On Atiku’s coalition efforts, Wike said, “Atiku has a history of jumping from party to party whenever he cannot secure the presidential ticket. He has been in PDP, AC, APC, and now ADC, all driven by his presidential ambitions.”

Wike also revealed he led opposition to proposals that former Senate President David Mark become PDP National Chairman, arguing that Mark’s long tenure in power failed to bring meaningful change.

“If he served as Senate President for eight years without improving the country, why should we hand him the party’s leadership now?” Wike asked. “We need fresh leadership committed to real change.”