RismadarVoice Reporters, April 20, 2026
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on aggrieved members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to return to the fold, assuring that their rights and entitlements would be protected.
Wike, a former Rivers State governor and influential figure within the party, made the appeal on Monday at the 108th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP held at its national secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja.
He urged the party leadership to urgently set up a high-powered reconciliation committee to engage dissatisfied members, many of whom he said left the party due to uncertainty and political pressure.
“There is room for them to come back, and whatever is due to them will still be given,” Wike said, stressing the need for inclusiveness and dialogue.
The minister warned that unresolved internal disputes could further weaken the party ahead of future elections, insisting that unity and reconciliation must be prioritised.
“In life, there must be a period of crisis. What matters is how we resolve it. Now that we are together, we must not stop at reconciliation,” he stated.
Reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, Wike declared that he has no intention of leaving the party despite ongoing tensions.
“I have been a member of this party since 1998 and I will not leave. Whatever happens, we will continue to live as members of the PDP,” he added.
He also advocated greater transparency in party affairs, noting that openness would help rebuild trust and encourage defected members to return.
“If you engage them, they will understand and support the party. There is need for openness so that we can achieve the unity we desire,” he said.
Earlier, PDP National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, signalled a renewed direction for the party, stating that it was entering a new phase of strategy and electoral preparedness.
“The era of uncertainty is behind us. The era of strategy, consultation, and electoral preparation has begun,” he said, assuring that the party would adhere strictly to the Electoral Act and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines in conducting congresses.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, emphasised the need for unity, urging members to set aside differences in the interest of the party’s survival and growth.
He called for discipline and strict compliance with the party’s constitution, while commending ongoing reforms, including the e-registration initiative aimed at strengthening internal processes.
The NEC meeting comes amid efforts by the PDP leadership to stabilise the party and reposition it as a viable opposition force ahead of upcoming electoral contests.
