The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will take part in the 2027 general election, even as the opposition party continues to battle internal divisions.
Wike made this known on Sunday while speaking to delegates at the PDP’s 2026 national convention held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Responding to concerns raised by party leaders, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, over whether the PDP would field candidates in 2027, Wike said, “So many people have spoken here. Saraki has said, with Abba Moro, and they were asking, ‘Is the PDP going to contest the 2027 election at all?’
“I have told Senator Saraki that, by the grace of God, the PDP will be on the ballot in 2027. We have seen the real convention, the convention that is being monitored by the electoral umpire. That is the convention that is recognised.”
The FCT minister praised party members who remained loyal during the period of crisis, commending their resilience in the face of internal betrayal and external criticism.
“I congratulate all of you who stood firm when the storm raged. You showed exemplary resilience when push came to shove. You refused to be downcast when those who pretended to be leaders of the party betrayed you disgracefully.
“You survived the taunts of the naysayers. Together, we are standing on the positive side of purpose and committed to the task of making Nigeria a truly prosperous country,” he said.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, stated that the PDP had moved past a serious leadership crisis that once threatened its survival. He also criticised recent defections by governors and other stakeholders, describing them as evidence of weak leadership, while assuring members that the party would be repositioned to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
He further stressed the importance of inclusivity, noting that all members would have equal opportunities to contribute as the party rebuilds.
However, Wike’s remarks come amid ongoing controversy surrounding his political alignment. Although he remains a PDP member, he currently serves in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and has previously pledged support for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
This dual role continues to generate tension within the PDP, which is grappling with one of the most significant internal crises in its history, marked by factional disputes and a wave of defections to rival political parties.
Wike remains the only serving PDP member in the Federal Executive Council, making him a central and controversial figure as Nigeria’s political landscape gradually begins to take shape ahead of the next general election.
What you should know
Nyesom Wike’s assurance that the PDP will participate in the 2027 elections is a significant signal of the party’s intent to remain competitive despite its deep internal crisis.
His influence within the party remains strong, even as his role in an APC-led government raises questions about loyalty and strategy. The PDP’s future will largely depend on its ability to resolve factional disputes, rebuild trust among members, and present a united front.
As Nigeria moves closer to 2027, Wike’s actions and the party’s internal dynamics will play a crucial role in shaping the opposition’s strength.
