Anti party: PDP to Determine Wike’s Fate Next Week, Says South-South Chair
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PDP to Determine Wike’s Fate
The South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Emmanuel Ogidi, has announced that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) is set to evaluate the actions of Nyesom Wike, the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and make a definitive decision regarding his status within the party during a meeting scheduled for next week.
This development signals a critical juncture for the PDP as it grapples with internal tensions involving one of its prominent figures.
In a detailed television interview aired on Wednesday, Ogidi expressed the party’s growing frustration with Wike’s recent conduct, emphasizing that the PDP leadership is prepared to address the issue head-on.
Ogidi’s remarks come in response to a series of demands made by Wike during a separate television appearance on Monday, where the minister outlined specific conditions he believes the party must meet to restore harmony.
Wike insisted that the South-South zonal congress, organized by his faction and previously rejected by the party, must be officially recognized. Additionally, he called for the rejection of the South-East zonal congress, which resulted in the election of Ali Odefa and other leaders, as a prerequisite for peace within the party ahead of its upcoming national convention.
Wike’s statements have stirred significant controversy, particularly his assertion that the South-South zonal congress, held in Calabar, was legitimate and produced Chief Dan Orbih as the national vice chairman.
He dismissed claims by the acting national chairman that PDP governors opposed the congress, questioning the credibility of such assertions and warning that failure to uphold the congress could spark further discord. Wike’s remarks suggest a readiness to escalate tensions if his demands are not met, underscoring the deep divisions within the party.
In response, Ogidi was unequivocal in his stance, describing the PDP as a cohesive family but stressing that Wike’s actions have pushed the party to a breaking point.
He revealed that the NWC’s forthcoming decision will address Wike’s dual allegiance, noting that the minister’s behavior appears to serve the interests of the rival All Progressives Congress (APC). Ogidi expressed puzzlement over the APC’s tolerance of Wike’s conduct, suggesting that his actions are causing disruption not only within the PDP but also within the APC.
“You cannot serve two masters,” Ogidi remarked, highlighting the party’s exasperation with Wike’s contradictory affiliations.Ogidi acknowledged Wike’s past contributions to the PDP, noting that the party has been patient with him due to his previous accomplishments. PDP to Determine Wike’s Fate
However, he emphasized that Wike’s recent actions have crossed a line, stating, “He has gone too far.” While maintaining a measured tone, Ogidi hinted at the party’s readiness to take decisive action, even as it prepares for its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting later this month and the upcoming national convention.
He dismissed suggestions of an ongoing crisis, framing the current situation as a manageable issue with only a few unresolved matters remaining.The chairman also addressed Wike’s apparent frustration, suggesting that his actions align with the APC’s agenda rather than the PDP’s interests.
Despite this, Ogidi underscored the party’s restraint, noting that it has avoided escalating the situation thus far. However, he made it clear that the PDP is prepared to move forward without allowing Wike’s actions to derail its plans. PDP to Determine Wike’s Fate
“If he is starting another crisis, he is on his own,” Ogidi stated, signaling that the party is ready to proceed with or without Wike’s cooperation.This unfolding situation highlights the broader challenges facing the PDP as it navigates internal divisions and prepares for critical party activities.
The NWC’s decision next week is expected to clarify Wike’s standing within the party and could have far-reaching implications for its unity and strategy moving forward. As the PDP approaches its NEC meeting and national convention, the resolution of this issue will likely shape the party’s trajectory in the lead-up to future political contests.
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