Chief Ndubuisi Nwobu, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, has branded Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a “coward” for refusing to formally defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) despite openly supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a fiery interview with journalists in Awka on Thursday, May 1, 2025, Nwobu criticized Wike’s insistence on remaining a PDP member as a blatant contradiction, arguing that it undermines political integrity. “If Wike were man enough, he would go and obtain an APC membership card. You can’t claim loyalty to one party while promoting the interest of another,” Nwobu declared, accusing Wike of lacking the courage to align officially with the ruling party.
Nwobu, a vocal PDP stalwart, alleged that Wike’s actions stem from a calculated strategy developed during his eight-year tenure as Rivers State governor, during which he wielded outsized influence over the PDP. “Back then, Wike did everything as if he was helping the party, but it’s now clear he had ulterior motives,” Nwobu stated, claiming Wike strategically placed loyalists in key party structures, particularly the National Working Committee (NWC), to advance his personal ambitions. He accused Wike of sustaining this influence through financial inducements, which has shielded him from disciplinary action despite his overt support for Tinubu, including his role in the APC-led government since 2023.
The former chairman highlighted the difficulty in confronting Wike due to his entrenched network, noting that many former NWC members, including the national chairman and secretary, owed their positions to him. However, Nwobu revealed that efforts to dismantle Wike’s grip are underway, with the recent removal of the national secretary marking a significant step. “We’ve already dealt with the national secretary, and he’s out. Others will follow,” he asserted, emphasizing the importance of purging Wike’s loyalists from strategic roles to restore the PDP’s integrity.
Looking ahead, Nwobu pointed to a crucial National Executive Council (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 2025, where NWC decisions will be ratified, followed by a national convention to elect new leadership. “With the emergence of a new leadership, the political colouration that has held the party hostage will be eliminated. Wike’s undue influence will finally be rooted out,” he vowed. This push aligns with broader sentiments within the PDP, as seen in criticisms from figures like Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed and Atiku Abubakar’s camp, who have accused Wike of destabilizing the party. As the PDP grapples with internal crises ahead of the 2027 elections, Nwobu’s outspoken stance underscores a growing resolve to reclaim the party’s identity and unity, setting the stage for a pivotal showdown with Wike’s faction.
Leave a comment