The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has called on the National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party to step up efforts to bring back members who defected and strengthen the party’s standing as a credible opposition.
Wike made the appeal on Friday during a visit to the PDP national leadership at its headquarters, Wadata Plaza, Abuja.
He pledged loyalty to the party’s leadership and urged them to rebuild confidence among members, noting that post-election unity was critical to the party’s resurgence.
“My coming here this morning is to reassure you of my support for the members of the National Working Committee,” he said. “After elections, you will need the support of every party member, morally and otherwise.”
The minister acknowledged that the party had gone through internal challenges but expressed optimism that it was gradually overcoming its crisis.
“Yes, we had a crisis, and we have almost come out of it. It is not going to be easy. It requires a lot of hard work and sacrifice to move the party forward,” he stated.
Wike maintained that the PDP remained Nigeria’s foremost opposition party, dismissing claims by other political platforms seeking to assume that position.
“You cannot become a main opposition party without winning elections. Those claiming to lead the opposition have not demonstrated such capacity,” he said.
He urged the party leadership to actively engage former members who left due to uncertainties about their political future.
“Do what you can to bring back our members who have defected. Talk to them and send a strong team to engage them. Most of them are worried about opportunities within the party,” Wike added.
In his response, the PDP National Chairman, Abduraham Mohammed, described Wike’s visit as encouraging and assured that the leadership was committed to repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We have capable hands in the National Working Committee and will do everything possible to move the party to greater heights,” he said.
Also speaking, the PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, commended Wike for his continued support, noting that his contributions had strengthened the party’s visibility and operations.
The PDP leadership reiterated its resolve to consolidate its base nationwide and prepare for electoral victories in the next general elections.
