5 TIMES WIKE DEFIED THE PDP WITHOUT CONSEQUENCES

Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has repeatedly defied the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) without facing significant repercussions. His actions suggest a level of autonomy and influence that is unusual in Nigerian politics. Here are five notable instances where Wike openly challenged the PDP:

1. Formation of the G-5 Governors
   Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, Wike led a faction of five PDP governors, known as the G-5, to challenge the party’s leadership. The group opposed Atiku Abubakar’s presidential candidacy, arguing that the PDP’s zoning principle had been violated. Despite demanding the removal of the PDP National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, Wike faced no substantial consequences for this rebellion.
2. Supporting APC in Rivers State
   During the 2023 presidential election, Wike was accused of backing the APC candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, instead of his party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar. Allegedly using state resources to campaign for Tinubu, Wike’s actions led to the PDP losing Rivers State. Yet, the party did not take any disciplinary measures against him.
3. Feud with Governor Siminalayi Fubara
   After leaving office, Wike’s relationship with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, deteriorated, leading to a significant political crisis in Rivers State. Despite the public fallout, the PDP has not intervened or held Wike accountable for the destabilizing feud.
4. Accepting Ministerial Role from APC
   Wike’s acceptance of the FCT Minister position in the APC-led government shocked many within the PDP. His decision to work under President Bola Tinubu, the APC’s candidate, raised questions about his loyalty to the PDP. However, Wike faced no disciplinary action for crossing party lines.
5. Threats to PDP Governors
   Wike has publicly threatened PDP governors who oppose him, particularly during the G-5 saga. Recently, he warned governors against interfering in his conflict with Governor Fubara, threatening to “put fire” in their states. Despite this, the PDP has not acted against him.

Wike’s repeated defiance and the lack of significant consequences from the PDP highlight his powerful and unpredictable role within the party, raising questions about its internal discipline and cohesion.