Wike Signals Fresh Start for PDP, Welcomes Return of Former Members
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the internal crisis within the party has subsided, announcing an open-door policy for former members willing to return.
Speaking during a media parley in, Wike described politics as a game rather than a “fight to the finish,” urging aggrieved members to set aside personal differences in the interest of the party’s progress.
Addressing the fallout from the party’s recent national convention, the former Rivers State governor said the era of internal disputes was over, stressing that the party was now focused on reconciliation and rebuilding.
“As far as I’m concerned, the convention has come and gone. People are returning. The door is open. Yes, we had a crisis, but that phase is over. There is no reason to shut our doors now,” he said.
Wike revealed that several former members who had left the party had already indicated interest in rejoining, noting that the political climate was becoming more accommodating for those ready to contribute.
He also criticised the “do-or-die” mentality often associated with Nigerian politics, saying such an approach makes reconciliation difficult. According to him, the party’s recent challenges stemmed more from misunderstandings than from irreparable divisions.
“Politics is not a fight to the finish; it is like a game of football. When viewed as do-or-die, reconciliation becomes difficult. That is not our approach,” he said.
“We have had our differences, but if we are sincere, there is nothing that cannot be resolved. We can work together to move the party forward.”
Sending a message to aspiring candidates, Wike emphasised that political relevance is earned through visibility and hard work, not merely by holding titles. He warned that those who remain inactive should not expect recognition in future elections.
“There is no doubt that we have significant work ahead, but the most important thing is that we have moved past the convention,” he added.
The Peoples Democratic Party has been grappling with a leadership crisis since 2025, with rival factions holding parallel conventions and contesting control of the party in court. The situation has raised concerns about the opposition’s unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.