Presidency: PDP May Miss 2027, Should Begin Rebuilding for 2031 — Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has raised concerns that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may struggle to reclaim power in the 2027 general elections, citing what he described as deep-rooted leadership failures within the party.
Speaking during his end-of-year media interaction on Monday, Wike said the opposition party’s current leadership lacks direction, seriousness, and the capacity to take corrective decisions. PulseNets learnt that the former Rivers State governor believes these weaknesses have significantly undermined the PDP’s electoral prospects.
According to information obtained by PulseNets, Wike argued that with purposeful and visionary leadership, the party should realistically be positioning itself for a stronger comeback beyond 2027, particularly with an eye on 2031.
“We are dealing with a leadership that is not focused, a leadership that clearly does not know what to do, and a leadership that fails to listen to advice or consider suggestions,” Wike said.
He added that genuine commitment from party leaders would create room for introspection and reforms.
“If the leadership is truly committed, I should be able to come out and say, look, we made mistakes. Why are these things happening now, and what practical steps can we take to correct them?” he stated.
Wike further emphasised that winning elections requires more than ambition, stressing the importance of strategic preparation and internal coherence. PulseNets reported that he warned against approaching power as an end in itself without first strengthening party structures.
“It is not just about taking over government. We must properly position ourselves. If the leadership is strong, they must be ready to take responsibility and act decisively,” he said.
Looking ahead to the next election cycle, Wike expressed pessimism about the PDP’s chances in 2027 but urged party stakeholders not to abandon the rebuilding process.
“By 2027, it is likely that we may not make it. But are we going to allow the party to die? Can we not begin rebuilding now with 2031 in view?” he asked.
Despite his criticism, the FCT minister maintained that the PDP still has the capacity to return to power if its leaders demonstrate commitment and make the right choices. He told PulseNets that the party’s current predicament did not come as a surprise to him.
“Nothing is impossible when there is commitment. What is happening to my party today is exactly what I predicted. I warned repeatedly that if things were not done properly, this is where we would end up. No Nigerian can say they did not hear me; I have said it many times,” Wike said.
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He concluded by underscoring the central role of leadership in both politics and governance.
“Leadership is everything—whether in associations or in government. When leaders fail to take the right decisions, the consequences are inevitable,” he added.
