By Samuel Adeola
The South-South Zonal Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emmanuel Ogidi, has revealed that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), will take a definitive stance next week regarding the conduct of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking during a television interview, Ogidi said the party could no longer ignore Wike’s actions, adding that the former Rivers State governor appears to be working against the interests of the PDP.
“PDP is a big family, but I can tell you the NWC will take action on Wike next week,” Ogidi stated. “You cannot serve two masters.”
The remarks come in response to Wike’s recent television appearance, where he issued conditions for reconciliation with the PDP leadership.
He demanded official recognition of the South-South zonal congress conducted by his faction and the rejection of the South-East zonal congress that produced Ali Odefa and others.
“It’s not over yet,” Wike said. “There are still outstanding issues. One is the recognition of our South-South zonal congress. There are no two ways about it.”
He added, “During our congress in Calabar, the acting national chairman claimed PDP governors weren’t in support. Where are those governors now? If they want another crisis, so be it. That congress must stand. Chief Dan Orbih emerged as National Vice Chairman.”
Ogidi, however, accused Wike of promoting the agenda of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite previously contributing significantly to the PDP.
“He was very good before. He did a lot for the party, and we’ve tolerated him because of that. But others have contributed too,” Ogidi said. “He has gone too far. He’s now pushing the APC’s script.”
Ogidi further explained that the party has remained calm in order to avoid deepening internal divisions.
With the National Executive Committee (NEC), meeting and the convention remaining as the final steps in the party’s internal processes, he noted that Wike may be acting alone.
“If he is starting another crisis, he is on his own. I understand his frustration, but the party will act soon,” he concluded.
