PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman Discusses Party Crisis, Wike’s Role, and Future Goals
Q: As the chair of the PDP Governors’ Forum, can you clarify the current crisis within the PDP? Despite assurances of unity, there seems to be increasing polarization. What’s really happening?
BM: As the chairman, I must approach this with care. Internal matters should ideally stay within the party rather than become public discourse. However, I can assure you that the governors remain united, despite some differing views. It’s natural for a group of 13 governors to have varied perspectives—personal loyalties and relationships do come into play. Still, we stand united in our resolve to move forward.
Additionally, we’re mindful of the federal government’s attempts to gain control, evident in their financial management and approach toward labor. They’re not only focused on us; they’ve also impacted other parties like the NNPP and Labour Party, trying to shape a one-party state. Despite their resources, poor governance on their part ultimately strengthens our position.
Regarding the issue between Ambassador Umar Damagum and the National Working Committee (NWC), we’ve come to a resolution. We might have constitutional differences, but we’re aligned in our need for unity. Constitutionally, vacancies within the party must be filled by someone from the same region as their predecessor, which we fought to uphold when it was challenged. Consistent application of the law is vital.
Q: There’s a perception that the crisis is extensive and complex. Can the PDP resolve this in time?
BM: I believe we can. I’ve spoken to both sides, and while certain individuals may be fueling this conflict, it’s critical to ask who’s behind it. In this case, the answer points to Tinubu and Wike.
Q: There’s little evidence connecting Tinubu to this conflict.
BM: Tinubu supports Wike, who, while officially remaining in the PDP, appears to align himself with the APC. It’s unconventional, but that’s the reality we face.
Q: Wike claims he sought the party’s endorsement, including your support. Is that accurate?
BM: No, it’s not. You can’t have it both ways—loyalty is a one-way street. I’ve made this clear to Wike directly. You can’t lead in a party while refusing to support it, especially with the 2027 elections approaching. The media, too, has endorsed this contradictory behavior. His public stance against the PDP for 2027 speaks volumes and has undoubtedly fueled the current issues within the party.
I bear no personal grudge against Wike. Had he shown loyalty to the PDP, he would have my full support. However, he’s made his position clear, so we can’t let him act without consequence, especially as we work toward reclaiming power in 2027. Disloyalty is simply unacceptable.
Q: Some wonder why, with the influence of the governors and your role on the BoT, no strong action—like suspension—has been taken against Wike.
BM: Suspending Wike requires involvement from the NWC. While governors are influential, the BoT is advisory, not a decision-making body. That’s why we’re focusing on resolving the issue rather than targeting Wike. Even if he were to formally join the APC, I would support his return to the PDP, as I would for any other party member who returns.
Q: Are you confident that the PDP can challenge the APC in 2027?
BM: Absolutely. The APC isn’t without its own internal issues. If you think they’re free of problems, think again. They’re fractured across states and local governments with limited respect for party structure.
They’ve tried to destabilize both the Labour Party and NNPP, but they’re dealing with their own internal challenges. Every party has its hurdles, but we’ll emerge stronger from ours. I believe that by God’s grace, we’ll overcome these obstacles, remove those undermining our progress, and move forward as a united PDP.
