Political Tensions Rise as PDP, NNPP, and CUPP Condemn Wike’s Public Support for Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Bid
Political Tensions Rise as PDP, NNPP, and CUPP Condemn Wike’s Public Support for Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Bid
Several political groups, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), have strongly condemned Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for publicly declaring his intention to lead President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.
During a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike described himself as a crucial asset in ensuring Tinubu’s victory in the upcoming election. The former Rivers State governor also asserted that he has not engaged in any anti-party activities and challenged the PDP to suspend him if they believe otherwise.
In reaction, PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, called on Nigerians to dismiss Wike’s remarks, asserting that the party will soon take disciplinary action against him in accordance with established rules.
Mark Adebayo, Publicity Secretary of CUPP, labeled Wike as the “President’s hatchet man,” accusing him of working to weaken opposition parties. Meanwhile, the NNPP remains confident that Tinubu will be defeated in 2027, regardless of Wike’s endorsement.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Wike emphasized his continued loyalty to the PDP, claiming he played a significant role in the party’s efforts and questioning anyone who challenges his membership. “I am still in the PDP. I worked hard for the party. Who can tell me I am not a member?” he stated.
He also criticized the PDP’s decision to support former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential race, citing the party’s breach of an agreement on a southern presidential candidate. Wike reiterated his stance that the presidency should have gone to the South, emphasizing that his refusal to support Atiku was rooted in principles of equity and fairness.
He further justified his support for Tinubu’s re-election, insisting, “I am an asset. Whether you like me or not, I am crucial to Tinubu’s success in 2027.” Wike highlighted his perceived importance in securing Tinubu’s victory and dismissed claims that he is a liability.
Wike also expressed concerns about the PDP’s leadership, attributing the party’s recent mass defections—particularly from Delta State and Akwa Ibom—to leadership failures. “It’s a leadership problem. They knew these states would defect, yet they did nothing,” he said, criticizing the party’s handling of internal dissent.
In response, a senior PDP official assured that the party adheres strictly to its rules and will enforce disciplinary measures against Wike when appropriate. “We operate a process-driven party. Opinions are free, but rules are sacred. When the time comes, we will apply our regulations,” the official stated.
Osadolor urged Nigerians and PDP members to ignore Wike’s comments, emphasizing that Wike’s influence within the party has waned. “He no longer commands the influence he once had. Nigerians are determined to vote out the current government in 2027,” Osadolor said, adding that the PDP remains committed to reclaiming power.
In reaction to Wike’s support for Tinubu, PDP Board of Trustees member, Chief Bode George, reaffirmed that the party would field a southern candidate who is a party member, emphasizing that the PDP would not endorse Tinubu’s re-election. “Tinubu is not a PDP member, so we will not rally around him,” George stated.
He also criticized recent defections from the PDP to the APC, questioning the motives of those who have switched allegiances. “Many elected officials who campaigned on PDP platforms have defected; it’s disheartening. What are they seeking in the APC? The people are angry and hungry,” George added.
Despite the internal disagreements, George vowed to lead the PDP’s campaigns in search of a presidential candidate for both the 2027 and 2031 elections, aiming to restore the party’s fortunes.
