Wike Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP, Slams South-East Critics and Rules Out 2027 Presidential Run

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has restated his loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), making it clear that he has no plans to leave the party—even while serving in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Pidgin, Wike emphasized his resilience, saying he won’t abandon the political platform he helped build. “I can’t do that. I’m not afraid – how will I build a house, and you now ask me to vacate the place?” he asked.

He insisted that those trying to undermine the party from within should be the ones to leave. “It’s not me that will leave; it’s those who didn’t build the house who will have to go. I won’t watch anyone destroy what I laboured to put in place. I’m staying.”

Wike also took aim at internal critics, particularly from the South-East wing of the PDP. “The one that pains me is the threats from them (South-East PDP). Let me ask you, who is there?” he said, questioning the political relevance of some of his critics.

He singled out former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa, saying he lacks both influence and results. “He couldn’t even get three per cent of the vote and has no National Assembly members,” Wike noted.

The FCT Minister also dismissed Sam Egwu, ex-governor of Ebonyi State, saying, “He doesn’t have one lawmaker or governor, yet he’s issuing warnings like he has political weight.”

Wike defended his own political record, pointing out that he helped deliver PDP governors and National Assembly seats, unlike those now leading internal opposition.

He also criticized what he described as dishonesty among some PDP members over the issue of zoning. “I’ve told them before, if zoning becomes necessary, we’ll handle it at the appropriate time. But their manipulations and dishonesty will eventually destroy them,” he warned.

When asked about the 2027 presidential race, Wike ruled out any ambition to challenge President Tinubu. “I will not contest again. I should contest against somebody I’m working with? Who would win it if not him (Tinubu)?” he said.