Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain confident ahead of the 2027 general elections, dismissing fears that the absence of PDP governors in some states could weaken their chances.
Speaking during the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Wike told aspirants not to be intimidated by political realities in their states, insisting that electoral victory is not solely dependent on having a sitting governor.
He maintained that party members must shed fear and embrace confidence, stressing that the notion that candidates cannot win without a PDP governor is misleading.
The former Rivers State governor also reaffirmed that the party’s national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, would proceed as planned, noting that all necessary arrangements had been concluded.
He expressed optimism that several defected members would return to the party in the coming days.
On internal reconciliation, Wike called on the party leadership to intensify efforts to reunite aggrieved members, emphasizing that the process must be genuine and not driven by personal ambition.
He added that members must demonstrate commitment before the convention or risk being sidelined.
Taking a swipe at some party figures, including Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, Wike criticized those who had accused him of working for the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that many of them have since defected.
He lamented the shrinking number of PDP governors, blaming internal weaknesses and political defeats, but insisted that quality leadership matters more than numbers.
Wike concluded by reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, declaring that he would not abandon the party and would continue to support reconciliation efforts even after the convention.
