By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday hailed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja restraining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from holding its planned 2025 National Convention until all statutory requirements are met. Wike described the ruling by Justice James Omotosho as a decisive victory against impunity within the party, saying it reaffirms the importance of due process and adherence to the PDP Constitution and the Electoral Act.
In a statement signed on Friday by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Wike expressed mixed feelings, calling the ruling a triumph for justice but a reminder of the PDP’s deep internal cracks. “We are happy that we have fought impunity, but we are not happy with what is going on. What is key for us is that we have made sacrifices. It has nothing to do with personal interest,” he said.
The FCT Minister stressed that an opposition party must operate with integrity to earn public confidence and effectively challenge the ruling party. “The essence of opposition is to wrestle power from the ruling party. No opposition party carries on with impunity. We must put our house together and follow due process to show the public that we are ready to lead differently,” he said.
Wike dismissed suggestions that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was behind the PDP’s troubles, insisting that the crisis was self-inflicted and fueled by selfishness and disregard for founding members. He condemned the unilateral zoning of party positions and the culture of exclusion, warning that such practices undermine unity and discipline. “Some people thought money is everything, but some of us can never be swayed. We will not allow impunity to prevail,” he stated.
In a communique issued after the stakeholders’ meeting and read by former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, party leaders applauded the judiciary for restoring legality and confidence in the PDP. They affirmed that the judgment upheld the supremacy of the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act, INEC guidelines, and the PDP Constitution, clarifying the lawful roles of party officers in managing internal affairs.
The stakeholders resolved to abide by the judgment in its entirety and called on all genuine members to unite in rebuilding the party on the principles of fairness, justice, equity, and inclusivity. Party stalwarts at the meeting included former Governors Samuel Ortom and Okezie Ikpeazu, PDP National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, former National Vice Chairman South-South Dan Orbih, serving legislators, and state party chairmen.
