A source has revealed that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, defended his actions during the 2023 general elections at a closed-door meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held on May 11 in Abuja.
The gathering, aimed at addressing internal party disputes, brought together PDP governors, former governors, and members of the National Working Committee (NWC).
Following the high-level talks, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also chairs the PDP Governors Forum, announced that former Senate President Bukola Saraki had been appointed to head a reconciliation committee to mend internal rifts and rebuild unity within the party.
According to a source quoted by Punch, Wike clarified his role in the 2023 elections, stating that he had not engaged in any anti-party activities. He explained that while he did not support the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, he remained committed to the party by delivering victories for PDP candidates across other elective offices in his state.
“He made it clear that he never campaigned against the party. He only said he wouldn’t support Atiku. Despite that, he ensured the PDP won in the gubernatorial, National Assembly, and State House of Assembly elections in Rivers State,” the source said.
The former Rivers State governor reportedly claimed that no other sitting PDP governor matched his performance in delivering electoral wins for the party in 2023. He dared anyone with evidence of him engaging in anti-party conduct to come forward and present it.
Responding to allegations that he pledged to deliver the FCT to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, Wike reportedly denied ever making such a statement. He challenged party members to produce any proof audio, video, or written to substantiate the claim.
In a related development, the same source confirmed that members of the PDP’s National Working Committee met with Saraki and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Monday to deliberate on the prolonged dispute regarding the office of the party’s National Secretary.
“The meeting was productive. The Saraki-led committee worked through the issues surrounding defections and party grievances. They also resolved the National Secretary matter. I can confirm that Senator Samuel Anyanwu has been cleared and officially resumed duty yesterday,” the source disclosed.
The reconciliation efforts are seen as part of the PDP’s broader strategy to strengthen its structure and build momentum ahead of future elections, particularly the 2027 general polls.
