Political aide and commentator, Lere Olayinka, has amplified remarks by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, challenging rival factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to prove their legitimacy.
Wike, speaking during a live media chat in Abuja on Wednesday, dared leaders of opposing factions to open an official party bank account and establish a recognised secretariat if they truly control the party’s structure.
“You cannot continue to deceive Nigerians. If they are sure they are the authentic leadership of the PDP, let them open an official PDP account and tell party members to pay nomination fees into it,” he said.
The former Rivers State governor specifically mentioned Aminu Turaki (SAN) and other figures in the rival camp, urging them to test their claims publicly.
“Let Turaki, as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, open an account for the PDP. Let them announce it publicly for members who want to contest elections. That day, you will see what will happen,” Wike added.
He argued that no financial institution would recognise such an account without the legally established party leadership and documentation, insisting that the faction lacks the authority to operate the affairs of the party.
Wike also warned against attempts to set up what he described as illegal party offices in the Federal Capital Territory, stating that any move capable of causing a breakdown of law and order would be resisted.
“If anybody goes ahead to open an illegal office in the name of the PDP in Abuja, I will seal it. I will not allow any breach of peace because my duty is to maintain law and order,” he said.
The minister maintained that court rulings, including those of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, have already addressed the leadership dispute, accusing some party actors of misrepresenting judicial pronouncements for political gain.
He further dismissed claims that recent judgments favoured rival factions, insisting that the recognised leadership remains backed by law and due process.
Wike reiterated his commitment to the PDP, stating that his actions are aimed at preserving constitutional order within the party.
The development comes amid ongoing internal crises within the PDP over leadership, convention arrangements, and control of party structures ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders continuing to trade accusations over legitimacy and authority…See More
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