‘I’m PDP member but Wike is not my leader’ — Oyinlola
Former Governor Oyinlola Disavows PDP Leadership Under Wike
Former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola has publicly distanced himself from the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) associated with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Oyinlola stated in a Wednesday interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today that Wike does not hold a leadership position in his view.
When questioned about Wike’s status within the PDP, Oyinlola responded, “No, not my leader. You don’t say that kind of thing.” He reiterated his membership in the PDP but emphasized that Wike does not represent his leadership.
The former governor, who served as military governor of Lagos State from 1993 to 1996, described Wike as being young enough to be considered a political subordinate. “When I was governor in Lagos, where was he? In school,” Oyinlola remarked when asked if he regarded Wike as his subordinate.
Wike, a member of the PDP, was appointed as the FCT minister by President Bola Tinubu, leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Following his appointment, Wike formed the Rainbow Coalition, a political entity that supports Tinubu’s bid for re-election in 2027. This political shift has drawn criticism from some PDP members, who accuse Wike of undermining the party by aligning with the president.
Oyinlola, who governed Osun from 2003 to 2010, pointed to internal discord as a significant factor contributing to the current crisis within the PDP. He acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to restructure the party but noted that certain members are obstructing these initiatives. “He’s been trying to ensure that the party is re-engineered. But those who don’t want it are working against it within the party. That’s the much I can say,” Oyinlola said.
Despite ongoing challenges, Oyinlola remains optimistic about the PDP’s potential for recovery. He highlighted the party’s extensive presence, claiming it operates across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria. “The PDP is not dead. The bone will rise again,” he asserted, emphasizing that unity among members is essential for the party to regain its strength.
“If we get our acts together, it’s a thing we can achieve, but the forces making sure we don’t get there are there. They are not sleeping,” Oyinlola concluded.
