Port Harcourt, September 1, 2024 — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), advising them to steer clear of the internal politics of Rivers State or risk facing political crises in their own states.
Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike expressed his displeasure over what he described as the unwarranted interference by certain PDP governors in the affairs of Rivers State. He accused these governors of attempting to meddle in the state’s political landscape to undermine his influence and destabilize the peace and progress of the region.
“I want to make it abundantly clear that any governor who thinks he can interfere in Rivers politics will face the same fate in his own state,” Wike declared. “We will not sit idly by and watch outsiders disrupt the stability and development we have worked hard to achieve.”
Wike, who served as the Governor of Rivers State for two terms before his appointment as FCT Minister, remains a powerful figure in the state’s politics. His influence extends beyond Rivers, and he has been vocal in national political discourse, often clashing with his party’s leadership and other key figures.
The former governor’s warning comes amid growing tensions within the PDP, particularly in Rivers State, where there have been reports of factions within the party vying for control ahead of the upcoming local government elections. Wike has been accused by some party members of imposing candidates and marginalizing dissenting voices, allegations he has strongly denied.
Wike also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to the development of Rivers State and the well-being of its people, stating that he would not tolerate any attempts to destabilize the state under any guise.
“We have come a long way in restoring peace and fostering development in Rivers State,” Wike said. “Anyone who tries to take us back to the dark days of crisis will be resisted with every legal and political means available.”
He further cautioned the PDP leadership to respect the autonomy of state chapters, warning that failure to do so could lead to a nationwide crisis within the party. Wike’s remarks have sparked reactions across the political spectrum, with some seeing them as a sign of his intention to maintain a strong grip on Rivers politics, while others view them as a veiled threat to his political adversaries.
As the political atmosphere in Rivers State heats up, observers are keenly watching how the PDP will navigate the growing tension, particularly with Wike’s looming presence as a formidable power broker both within the party and on the national stage.
Nyesom Wike has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, particularly within the PDP. His tenure as Rivers State Governor was marked by significant infrastructure development and a robust stance against opposition. However, his confrontational approach has often put him at odds with other party leaders, especially during the PDP’s internal crisis leading up to the 2023 general elections.
Reactions to Wike’s warning have been mixed, with some PDP governors reportedly expressing concerns about the implications of his statements. A PDP chieftain who chose to remain anonymous told reporters, “Wike’s warning is a reflection of the deepening divisions within the party, and it’s something we need to address urgently before it spirals out of control.”
As the PDP navigates these turbulent waters, the role of Nyesom Wike in shaping the party’s future remains a subject of intense speculation and debate.