Nyesom Wike Challenges PDP Governors, Denies Allegations of Being a Mole

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has come out swinging against accusations of being a mole within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), daring any governor or party leader to make such claims publicly. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Nyesom Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, stated unequivocally that he has always been transparent in his political dealings.

Nyesom Wike stressed that before accepting his ministerial appointment, he officially informed various PDP bodies, including his state chapter, zonal leadership, and the national office. “Before I accepted my appointment as Minister, I wrote a letter to the PDP in my state, I wrote a letter to the PDP in my Zone, I wrote a letter to the PDP national.

Who in PDP is saying I’m a mole? Name names,” he stated. According to Nyesom Wike, his refusal to support the party’s 2023 presidential candidate was rooted in his commitment to equity and fairness, decisions he made openly. “I dare anybody in PDP, I dare any governor, I dare any National Working Committee member to come on national television to say I’m a mole,” he said.

Wike further emphasized his political integrity by citing his successful leadership in ensuring PDP’s victories in Rivers State during the last election cycle. He questioned why none of his critics could claim a similar 100 percent success rate across the governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly elections.

Obaseki Sought My Support, But I Refused, Says Wike

In the interview, Nyesom Wike revealed that Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, had approached him to seek support for his preferred gubernatorial successor, Dr. Asue Ighodalo. However, Nyesom Wike said he bluntly refused, citing past experiences where he had supported Obaseki but received nothing but insults in return. “Obaseki begged me to support his candidate, but I told him to his face I won’t do it. My support for him in the past brought nothing but insults,” Wike declared.

The strained relationship between Nyesom Wike and Obaseki has been a point of contention in Edo State’s political landscape, particularly as both men once shared a strong alliance within the PDP. Obaseki’s request for Wike’s backing underscores the internal fractures within the party, with Wike’s refusal highlighting the deepening rifts. Despite this, Nyesom Wike remains unapologetic about his decisions, stating that his loyalty to his principles comes above political convenience.

Nyesom Wike’s public rejection of Obaseki’s request is likely to reverberate through the Edo political scene as it navigates the challenges leading up to its next election. The minister’s comments point to the ongoing power dynamics within the PDP, as well as the personal grievances that continue to shape political alignments in the region.

Edo REC Is My Cousin, But He Won’t Be Intimidated, Declares Wike

During the same interview, Nyesom Wike also addressed speculations surrounding the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), who is reported to be his cousin. Wike confirmed the familial connection but dismissed concerns over any potential bias, assuring the public that the REC’s professional conduct is beyond reproach. “Yes, Edo REC is my cousin, but nobody can intimidate him, not even the INEC Chairman. Nobody born of a woman can force him into doing what is not right,” Wike said.

The minister questioned the timing of the allegations, noting that his cousin had been serving as REC in Edo for over a year. He criticized those raising the issue now as politically motivated, arguing that his cousin’s integrity remains intact. “Why are they bringing this up now? My cousin has been there for over a year, and suddenly it’s an issue?” Wike asked.

Nyesom Wike’s defense of the Edo REC adds another layer to his complex political persona. While acknowledging the family link, Wike made it clear that professionalism and fairness would not be compromised, despite the heightened political tensions in Edo. His bold stance reflects his ongoing defiance against those attempting to undermine his political influence

Ready to Forgive Fubara—Under Certain Conditions

Turning to Rivers State politics, Nyesom Wike addressed his strained relationship with Governor Similaye Fubara. Fubara, who was once part of Wike’s political family, is now at odds with his former mentor, with Wike accusing him of trying to dismantle the political machinery that brought him to power. Despite this, Wike hinted that he might be willing to forgive Fubara, but only if the governor is willing to make amends.

“I am ready to forgive Fubara, but he must realize the error in destroying the political family that made him,” Wike declared. This statement reflects Wike’s strong loyalty to his political allies and his expectation of the same from those he supports. It remains to be seen whether Fubara will seek reconciliation or continue to chart his course independently, but Wike’s comments suggest that he is not entirely opposed to mending the relationship if the right steps are taken.