Wike declares stake in Oyo PDP crisis, says focus is on party’s survival

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he is closely monitoring developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, stressing that his primary concern is the survival and continued strength of the party.

Wike made the remark in Abuja on Monday while speaking at the party’s 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, where he addressed ongoing tensions and factional disputes within the Oyo State chapter.

According to the former Rivers State governor, his interest in the situation is driven by his long-standing commitment to the PDP and its future as a major political platform in Nigeria.

“Let me make it clear — my interest is in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in what is happening in the Oyo State PDP. That is where I stand,” he told party stakeholders at the meeting.

He dismissed claims that members of the party were being intimidated amid the internal crisis, insisting that recent court rulings had weakened such allegations.

“Who is going to intimidate us? By the grace of God, some of us are beyond threats. The legal battle has collapsed, and there is no option now but to recognise the Caretaker Committee,” Wike stated.

His comments come against the backdrop of the lingering rift between him and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with both leaders now aligned with opposing factions within the party.

The disagreement followed a national convention organised last November by a faction led by Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, which was subsequently nullified by a Federal High Court sitting in Oyo State.

The crisis within the PDP continues as party leaders intensify reconciliation efforts ahead of the next national convention.