Wike To PDP: Opposition Credibility Comes Only from Election Wins

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, has said no political group can claim the mantle of credible opposition without first winning elections, dismissing what he called the empty posturing of smaller parties and hastily assembled coalitions.

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Receiving a courtesy visit at the party’s national headquarters, Wadata House, in Abuja, Wike pledged his unwavering loyalty to the newly inaugurated National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, insisting that true political relevance is measured solely by performance at the polls.

“You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those who say they are leading the opposition have not contested any election successfully,” he said.

The former Rivers State governor’s remarks come against the backdrop of intensifying political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with several fringe parties angling to position themselves as the leading alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike framed his visit as a gesture of solidarity aimed at fostering unity within the PDP as the party works to overcome recent internal crises.

“My coming here is to reassure you of my support. I have come to pledge my loyalty to the National Working Committee,” he said.

Acknowledging the party’s recent turbulence, Wike expressed optimism that the PDP was emerging from its difficulties.

“Yes, we have crisis, and we have almost come out of it. It will require hard work and sacrifice to move the party forward,” he added.

The minister urged the NWC to prioritise reconciliation, particularly by reaching out to members who had defected but still retain an interest in the PDP. “Most are concerned about opportunities, including tickets. You know what to do,” Wike advised.

He also cautioned the party leadership against being distracted by ongoing legal battles, expressing confidence in the PDP’s legal victories so far.

“We have defeated them at the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. The same God will see us through. Stay focused and work as a team,” he said.

In his response, the PDP national chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, assured that the new leadership would reposition the party and restore public confidence.

“We have capable hands and we are determined to lead the party to a higher level. We will not disappoint Nigerians,” Mohammed said, adding that the PDP remains a viable platform for national leadership and would intensify efforts to secure electoral victories in 2027.

Also speaking, the national secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, commended Wike’s continued support, describing the visit as a major morale booster for the party’s leadership.