By Emmanuel Kwada
The Federal Capital Territory Minister and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has declared an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from internal sabotage, likening detractors to “vampires” bent on destroying the party.
Speaking at an emergency PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Monday, Wike emphasized that the party’s 2027 presidential ticket must go to a candidate from Western Nigeria to ensure regional balance and strategic positioning.
Wike’s fiery remarks come amid escalating tensions within the PDP, with defections and factionalism threatening the party’s unity. “We won’t allow vampires to kill our party,” Wike stated, rallying stakeholders to resist what he described as deliberate attempts to undermine the PDP’s viability.
We won’t allow vampires to kill our party
He stressed that the party must remain a formidable opposition force, but only through decisive action to curb impunity and strengthen internal cohesion.
The meeting, attended by key PDP figures, was convened to address the deepening crisis, which has seen Wike at odds with some party leaders. Sources indicate that Wike’s push for a Western presidential candidate is part of a broader strategy to reposition the PDP for the 2027 elections, potentially countering the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adding to the controversy, Wike recently announced his intention to champion President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in Rivers State and the FCT, a move that has raised eyebrows within PDP circles.
While Wike clarified that his support for Tinubu does not equate to abandoning the PDP, his alignment with the APC leader has fueled speculation about his long-term political ambitions and strained relations with PDP loyalists.
The PDP crisis was further highlighted by Wike’s earlier withdrawal from a peace deal brokered to resolve internal disputes, where he accused the governors of Oyo and Enugu states of exacerbating the party’s challenges. This has deepened factional divides, with some stakeholders questioning Wike’s loyalty to the PDP’s cause.
As the PDP grapples with its internal turmoil, Wike’s call for a Western ticket and his simultaneous backing of Tinubu have sparked intense debate. Political analysts suggest that Wike’s maneuvers could either revitalize the PDP or further fracture its base, depending on how the party navigates the coming months.
For now, the PDP remains at a crossroads, with Wike’s bold declarations setting the stage for a contentious battle for control and direction.
