Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday evening hosted a gathering of prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, where he reaffirmed the group’s dedication to the survival and revival of the party.
The meeting, held under the banner of “Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP,” drew several influential figures from the South-East and other regions, including former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia. Also present was the PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, alongside other former and serving lawmakers, party executives, and political leaders.
Addressing the gathering, Wike emphasized that those in attendance represented individuals who had remained committed to the party’s ideals even during turbulent periods.
“All of you here are those who are committed to the survival of our party—not just in the media but at the grassroots,” he said. “This country is more stable today because of the actions of the G5 Governors. We may not be liked, but the truth remains that our decisions helped prevent a national crisis.”
Wike took aim at perceived internal party injustices, warning against the dangers of impunity within an opposition party.
“As an opposition, we cannot behave with impunity. We should be uniting people, not pushing them away,” he said. “Let us not allow ego or greed to destroy the PDP.”
He also criticized what he described as undue focus on internal power struggles, citing examples of party members who contested elections while retaining party positions without facing repercussions.
Former Benue governor Samuel Ortom, in his remarks, praised Wike’s contributions to the PDP, suggesting that few, if any, had invested as much in the party’s growth.
“If anyone says they’ve done more for the PDP than Wike, let them come forward. The president understands that Nigeria cannot function as a one-party state. That’s why Wike holds such a strategic role today,” Ortom said.