PDP a formidable party, not charity organisation – Wike
Wike Affirms PDP’s Political Strength at National Meeting
In a recent address at the 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, emphasized the party’s continued significance in Nigeria’s political landscape, countering views that it operates as a charity organization.
Wike urged party members to focus on grassroots engagement and the importance of rebuilding the party from its foundational levels, starting at the ward and polling unit stages. “Forget the idea that PDP is a charity organization. Despite the challenges we face, PDP remains a formidable political force,” he stated.
The minister elaborated on the internal challenges confronting the party, including ongoing legal disputes and strategies for future electoral success. He expressed his dedication to ensuring the party’s stability and survival nationwide, particularly highlighting his involvement in the Oyo chapter’s activities.
While acknowledging calls for peace from the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) and the National Working Committee (NWC), Wike cautioned members to remain alert to threats aimed at destabilizing the PDP. He asserted that adversaries would persist in their efforts to undermine the party but expressed confidence that these attempts would ultimately fail.
“They will not give up until they believe you are destroyed,” Wike warned. “But I will not be destroyed; you will not be destroyed. Let us move forward.”
Additionally, Wike responded to concerns about potential disruptions from what he termed “vampires” seeking control of the party across all 36 states, including the FCT. He underscored the need for the PDP to leverage its professional capabilities, pointing out the expertise of its legal adviser and national organizing secretary.
“We have a competent legal adviser. We have a competent national organizing secretary. Experience matters. When we combine our collective experience, the results will speak for themselves,” he remarked.
Wike concluded by expressing appreciation to NEC members for their attendance and commitment to fortifying the PDP as Nigeria’s leading opposition party. He noted that the party is anticipating directions from the caretaker committee regarding overdue congresses, which he identified as crucial for organizing a credible national convention.
