FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has defiantly stated that no one within the Peoples Democratic Party has the power or moral standing to expel him from its ranks.
Speaking in Abuja, Wike reaffirmed his PDP membership despite serving in the APC-led government, insisting his loyalty and contributions far outweigh those of his detractors.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has fired back at critics within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating emphatically that no one has the authority or courage to expel him from the party. Wike, who is known for his bold political stance and influence, made this declaration on Monday, June 2, 2025, during a press briefing in Abuja.
Addressing a range of issues surrounding his continued presence in the PDP despite his role in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, Wike made it clear that his allegiance to the PDP remains intact. He also challenged those behind the growing calls for his expulsion to match his contributions to the party before questioning his loyalty.
“I am still a bonafide member of the PDP. I worked hard and made serious sacrifices for this party,” Wike said. “There is no one in this party who can boldly tell me I don’t belong. Who is that person? What has he or she done for the PDP that surpasses my contributions?”
The former governor of Rivers State noted that while he currently serves in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, his acceptance of the FCT ministerial role does not equate to disloyalty. Instead, he insisted that he is leveraging the position to serve Nigerians and fulfill his mandate without compromising his core political values or party identity.
Wike’s statement comes amid growing internal dissent in the PDP over his perceived alignment with the APC. Many party stakeholders and supporters have expressed discontent, alleging that Wike’s involvement with the ruling party has weakened the PDP’s credibility as the major opposition force in Nigeria. This has led to renewed calls from some quarters for disciplinary measures, including expulsion.
However, Wike dismissed such agitation as misguided, saying those pushing for his removal have failed to recognize the foundational role he played in building and sustaining the party, especially in its most critical moments. He referenced his leadership during the 2015 and 2019 general elections as well as his significant influence over PDP structures in the South-South.
“You don’t just come into a party and start barking orders,” he said. “Some of these people have not contributed even a fraction of what I have done for the PDP. It’s laughable that they now think they can define who stays or who leaves.”
Wike also issued a subtle warning to his political adversaries, urging them to focus on strengthening the party rather than engaging in petty power struggles. He advised them to channel their energy toward rebuilding public confidence in the PDP ahead of future elections.
Despite the controversies surrounding his political alignment, Wike remains one of the most influential figures in the PDP, with loyal supporters scattered across various states. His refusal to bow to pressure indicates that the internal crisis within the party may linger, especially as preparations begin for upcoming elections in several states.
For now, Wike stands firm in his position a self-proclaimed political heavyweight unwilling to be sidelined. As the PDP continues to navigate its internal turbulence, the role of figures like Wike will be crucial in shaping the party’s future direction and electoral prospects.
