UPDATED: Anti-party allegations not enough to punish Wike – PDP

Nyesom Wike, Hon. Minister, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory

PDP Clarifies: Anti-Party Allegations Alone Insufficient to Sanction Wike

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially stated that allegations of anti-party activities leveled against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, are not enough to warrant disciplinary action without a formal petition backed by credible evidence.

This clarification was delivered by the PDP’s Deputy National Legal Adviser, Barrister Okechukwu Osuoha, during a press briefing in Abuja. He explained that although the party has constituted a disciplinary committee led by elder statesman Chief Tom Ikimi and Eyitayo Jegede (SAN) as secretary, no member has been sanctioned to date due to the absence of formal complaints. Osuoha emphasized that the party’s constitution requires due process, and any disciplinary action must be initiated through a written petition that includes verifiable evidence and a willingness by the petitioner to testify before the committee.

Responding to growing public pressure and internal calls for action against Wike, Osuoha noted that many people have questioned the party’s silence, but reiterated that mere accusations are not sufficient grounds for punishment. He stressed that the PDP cannot act on hearsay or media speculation, and that the burden of proof lies with those making the allegations.

The party’s stance reflects broader challenges within Nigeria’s political and legal systems, where enforcement of disciplinary measures often falters due to procedural gaps and reluctance to follow through. Osuoha acknowledged this systemic issue, stating that the difficulty in pursuing disciplinary cases to conclusion is not unique to the PDP but symptomatic of the country’s governance landscape.

Wike’s political activities have remained a focal point of controversy within the PDP, especially following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu, a member of the rival All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite this, the PDP maintains that it will not be swayed by public sentiment or political pressure, and will uphold its internal processes to ensure fairness and accountability.

As the PDP prepares for the 2027 general elections, the party’s leadership continues to navigate internal divisions and calls for reform. The clarification on Wike’s status underscores the party’s commitment to due process, even amid rising tensions and demands for swift action.