Wike declares Sandy Onor PDP’s only presidential candidate, dismisses rival faction

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that Sandy Onor is the only recognised presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), amid emerging factional disputes within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

Wike made the claim during his monthly media chat on Monday in Abuja, insisting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) only recognises the PDP secretariat at Wadata Plaza as the legitimate party headquarters.

 

According to him, any other structure or faction operating outside that address lacks legitimacy.

 

“There is no faction in the PDP. The only presidential candidate of the PDP is Sandy Onor,” Wike said.

 

He further questioned the legitimacy of other aspirants, arguing that a candidate must first indicate interest before being considered.

 

“Do you pick someone who has not told you he wants to run for an election?” he asked.

 

Wike also maintained that INEC must strictly recognise official party structures to avoid confusion.

 

“INEC must know the secretariat of all political parties. The INEC-recognized PDP secretariat is Wadata Plaza and not anyone’s private office or bedroom,” he added.

 

The comments come amid reports that different PDP blocs recently produced separate presidential candidates for the 2027 election.

 

While the Wike-led faction is backing Sandy Onor, another group reportedly endorsed former President Goodluck Jonathan in absentia, although Jonathan has not publicly commented on the development.