Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike urged the Peoples Democratic Party National Working Committee to reclaim defectors and strengthen the party’s opposition role ahead of the 2027 elections. He spoke at the PDP’s 10th Elective National Convention held at the Velodrome, Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
Wike declared that loyal members had already reclaimed the party. He stated, “Today marks the rebirth of our party in a new form. Today is the birth of a united party, ready to move forward.” He added, “More importantly, we have reclaimed and returned the party to its rightful owners, the people.”
Wike criticised defecting governors for abandoning the party during crises. He said true leaders stay to resolve problems rather than flee. Wike then demanded that defectors return the mandates they received from the PDP. He declared, “All of you who took our mandate, we will take them back.”
Additionally, Wike extended an invitation to aggrieved members. He stated, “Our brothers and sisters who may have left should return and join us in rebuilding this party for the collective good. No one will be excluded; everyone will have an opportunity to serve in unity and in law.”
Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido joined the call for unity. He urged defectors to return home and recommit to the party’s founding vision of national interest.
Meanwhile Acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed emphasised institutional discipline. He told delegates, “No ambition is greater than this party. No office is worth the weakening of this platform.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission monitored the convention. Party leaders, including former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki, confirmed the PDP would field candidates in 2027 and push for a stronger opposition voice.
Wike’s remarks came after INEC later recognised the Wike-backed National Working Committee, with Abdulrahman Mohammed as National Chairman and Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary. The moves signalled a fresh push to rebuild the opposition party.
