Wike Assures PDP WILL CONTEST 2027 ELECTION DESPITE INTERNAL DIVISIONS
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has affirmed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will participate in the 2027 general elections despite ongoing internal crises within the opposition party.
Wike made the declaration on Sunday while addressing delegates at the PDP 2026 National Convention held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Responding to concerns from party leaders, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, over the party’s ability to field candidates, Wike said:
“So many people have spoken here. Saraki has said, with Abba Moro, and they were asking, ‘Is the PDP going to contest the 2027 election at all?’ I have told Senator Saraki that, by the grace of God, the PDP will be on the ballot in 2027. We have seen the real convention, the convention that is being monitored by the electoral umpire. That is the convention that is recognised.”
He commended party members who remained loyal during the crisis, praising their resilience amid internal betrayals and external criticism.
“I congratulate all of you who stood firm when the storm raged. You showed exemplary resilience when push came to shove. You refused to be downcast when those who pretended to be leaders of the party betrayed you disgracefully. You survived the taunts of the naysayers. Together, we are standing on the positive side of purpose and committed to the task of making Nigeria a truly prosperous country,” Wike said.
The former Rivers State Governor noted that the PDP had overcome a serious leadership crisis that once threatened its survival. He criticised recent defections by governors and other stakeholders as signs of weak leadership while assuring members of the party’s plans to reposition itself to meet Nigerians’ expectations.
Wike also emphasised inclusivity, saying all members would have the opportunity to serve as the party rebuilds.
However, his remarks come amid controversy over his political alignment. Although still a PDP member, Wike serves in the cabinet of President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and has previously pledged support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
His dual role continues to fuel tensions within the PDP, which is grappling with one of the most significant internal crises in its history, marked by factional disputes and mass defections to rival parties. Wike remains the only serving PDP member in the Federal Executive Council and a central figure in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the next general election.
