The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum (PDP-GF) has sharply criticized Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for his recent threats aimed at opposition governors involved in the Rivers State party leadership dispute. Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, had warned that any interference in the party’s affairs in Rivers State would result in political turmoil in the states of the offending governors.
In a statement issued by Emmanuel Agbo, Director General of the PDP-GF, the forum condemned Wike’s threats as “irresponsible” and detrimental to efforts aimed at fostering peace, collaboration, and respect among party leaders. This reaction followed Wike’s comments during a PDP Congress in Port Harcourt, where he vowed to create political instability for any governor who meddles in the Rivers State PDP affairs.
The PDP governors, gathered in Jalingo, Taraba State last week, reaffirmed their support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara in the ongoing leadership tussle within the Rivers State PDP chapter. Despite Wike’s threats, the forum emphasized that their stance on the Rivers State situation remains unchanged and that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP will ensure Fubara receives all the privileges due to him as an elected governor of the party.
The statement from the PDP-GF highlighted their commitment to party unity and discipline, criticizing Wike for his “unbridled” statements which they argue undermine the party’s efforts to maintain peace and cohesion. The governors expressed disappointment that such divisive rhetoric is coming from a former member of the forum who benefited from the party’s supportive traditions.
The forum urged Wike to engage constructively with the PDP’s established mechanisms for conflict resolution, including the recently constituted disciplinary and reconciliation committees. They emphasized that dialogue and reconciliation are crucial for resolving internal conflicts and strengthening the party.
Furthermore, the PDP-GF called on national security agencies to take note of Wike’s threats, asserting that no individual is above the law. They stressed the importance of adhering to legal and party procedures to address grievances and avoid exacerbating tensions.
In summary, the PDP governors have made it clear that they remain steadfast in their support for Governor Fubara and are committed to working with the PDP NWC to ensure the unity and stability of the party, despite Wike’s provocative statements.
