A presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sandy Onor, has clarified that the decision by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to support President Bola Tinubu is a personal choice and does not represent the stance of the party.
Speaking after obtaining his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, Onor stressed that while Wike remains an influential figure within the PDP, his political alignment should not be mistaken for the party’s official direction ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Onor, who is considered an ally of Wike, purchased the forms at a cost of ₦51 million, making him the first and, so far, the only aspirant to formally declare interest in the PDP presidential ticket.
He acknowledged Wike’s leadership within the party but maintained that no single individual determines its collective decisions.
“Barrister Nyesom Wike is indisputably a leader of the party, but he is not the party,” Onor said, adding that his own ambition was driven by strong encouragement from stakeholders across the country.
Addressing Wike’s position, Onor noted that the minister had been transparent about his support for President Tinubu, even before assuming office, and had sought the party’s approval at the time.
According to him, Wike’s stance reflects personal conviction and political integrity, especially given his role in the current administration. However, he insisted that this does not bind the PDP or dictate its electoral strategy.
“The fact that he has chosen to support the President does not mean that this is the direction the party will take,” he said.
Onor reaffirmed the PDP’s intention to field a presidential candidate capable of contesting strongly in 2027, expressing confidence that Nigerians are still open to the party’s style of governance.
He also pledged to provide responsible and courageous leadership if given the mandate, urging voters to make their choices freely at the polls.
Wike’s continued support for Tinubu’s re-election bid has stirred debate within political circles, with many watching closely to see how it may influence the PDP’s internal dynamics and broader electoral prospects.
