Wike Challenges Defecting PDP Governors to Restore Our Mandate

At the 2026 convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, voiced his disapproval of governors who have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other parties, arguing that such exits underscore a deficiency in leadership and dedication.

During this event, which was organized by a faction of the PDP under the leadership of Abdulrahman Mohammed and supported by Wike, he addressed delegates, framing the recent defections as indicative of weak leadership. He posited that those abandoning the party during its challenges have demonstrated a fundamental failure in responsibility.

"Leadership is a challenging role that demands courage, determination, and commitment. The recent defections highlight that these leaders lack essential leadership qualities," Wike stated.

He contrasted these defectors with past party members such as Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, suggesting that leaders who cannot handle internal crises are unqualified for greater responsibilities. "At the time of crisis, true leadership must emerge, but some fled because they were unable to tackle the issues at hand," he remarked, referring to the governors' reliance on the PDP when seeking a political platform.

Wike likened political loyalty to familial responsibility, emphasizing that genuine leaders do not abandon their constituents in tough times. He commended those who have remained committed to the PDP despite facing internal strife. "When families encounter difficulties, they don’t desert one another; they work to resolve the issues together. Those who stayed have exhibited true leadership qualities and resilience," he remarked.

He also alerted the defectors, stating that loyal party members would strive to recover what he characterized as their usurped mandate. "This is the time for 'operation show your report card.' Those who took our mandate shall have it reclaimed, as their ability to manage minor challenges casts doubt on their capabilities in broader national or external crises," he declared.

Wike called upon party members in various states, including Taraba, Bayelsa, and Plateau, to demand the return of their mandate, signaling a movement to re-establish the PDP's authority at regional levels. Governors who left the PDP include Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and others, who have moved to the APC, while Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke joined the Accord Party.

Currently, only two governors, Bala Mohammed (Bauchi) and Seyi Makinde (Oyo), remain within the PDP. Despite his critiques, Wike, while serving in the APC- led federal government, portrayed an optimistic narrative of recovery and resurgence for the PDP, asserting that the party has moved past a significant leadership crisis that once threatened its survival.

He acknowledged the resilience of grassroots supporters who remained dedicated to the PDP despite the actions of opportunistic elites, stating, "While the self-serving elites wavered, our grassroots members held firm, fostering the hope of revival. That revival is now upon us." Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, urged party unity and inclusivity as the PDP embarks on a rebuilding journey, inviting former members to return irrespective of previous conflicts.

"The future of our party hinges on unity, inclusiveness, and renewal. We will not exclude anyone. Everyone deserves an equal chance to contribute," he concluded. Wike stressed the importance of renewing their commitment to the party’s core values and establishing credible avenues for grassroots involvement, asserting that the PDP must evolve to meet the aspirations of Nigerians. "We must strengthen our loyalty and dedication, creating valid channels for the voices of the people to be acknowledged," he affirmed.