Minister Affirms Unity Within Peoples Democratic Party
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike categorically dismissed claims of division within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a press briefing in Abuja. As the party gears up for its national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, Wike asserted that the PDP remains united despite speculation about internal conflicts.
Addressing concerns about potential factionalism, Wike explained that differing opinions among members do not equate to the formation of factions. “We have no factions and only one PDP,” he declared, emphasizing that while some may harbor dissatisfaction, the idea of multiple factions is unfounded.
Wike acknowledged the existence of grievances but assured the public that reconciliation efforts are actively taking place alongside preparations for the upcoming convention. He suggested that the process of reconciliation can progress in conjunction with the establishment of a treaty, stating, “Just because there is a treaty doesn’t mean there is no reconciliation. Everything has its time.”
Inspection of Infrastructure Projects
During his tour of various infrastructure projects across the capital, Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to delivering quality construction on time. He conveyed the administration’s proactive approach by consistently engaging with contractors to evaluate the standard of work being executed.
Among the notable developments, Wike highlighted the imminent completion of a bridge project near the fire station in Abuja, with the contractor expected to hand over the site within five months. “From what we have seen, this is very high-quality work and I commend this company,” he noted.
Additionally, Wike announced the completion of the N5 road project, assigned to Mr. Julius Berger, which is set to be inaugurated in celebration of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office. Furthermore, he expressed satisfaction with the recently finished staff bungalows at the Nigerian Law School, noting they are fully furnished and ready for occupancy.
Progress and Challenges in Hostel Development
While surveying ongoing hostel projects, Wike commended the advancements in women’s hostels but voiced concerns regarding delays in the construction of men’s hostels, which he deemed subpar despite being awarded simultaneously. “I’m very impressed with the women’s hostel, but I’m not impressed with the level of work in the men’s hostel,” he remarked, urging the contractor to ensure timely completion by October or November.
Wike characterized the governmental intervention in infrastructure development as unprecedented, marking it as a significant milestone for the agency responsible for law schools in Nigeria. He attributed the administrative track record of project implementation to effective resource management and strong political will, stating, “It’s not the amount that matters, it’s the commitment.”
Fiscal Responsibility and Infrastructure Development
Emphasizing fiscal responsibility, Wike reiterated that the FCT primarily relies on internally generated revenue and refrains from pursuing contracts without adequate funding. He asserted, “We will not award contracts to projects without funding,” highlighting the administration’s focus on sustainable development.
Wike credited the rapid pace of infrastructure development in the FCT to the support from President Bola Tinubu, stating, “We’re gaining momentum because we have a president who believes in delivering infrastructure. That support makes a difference.” He reassured residents of the FCT that all ongoing projects will be delivered on schedule, underlining the administration’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and service delivery.
Background on PDP Leadership Crisis
The minister’s appointment unfolds against the backdrop of a lengthy leadership crisis within the PDP that commenced in November 2025. Earlier, PDP governors endorsed the Ibadan convention held on November 15, which led to the election of Kabiru Turaki and other members of the National Working Committee for a four-year term. Leadership was passed from former acting national chairman Umar Damagum to Turaki just prior to Damagum’s term ending on December 9.
However, factions loyal to Wike later formed a caretaker committee, appointing Mr. Mohammed Abdulrahman as Acting National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Secretary for a 60-day term. Efforts by both factions to convene at the PDP national secretariat on November 18 resulted in chaos, leading to police intervention and the sealing of the office.
A subsequent legal battle culminated in a Court of Appeal hearing on February 12. On March 9, the court ruled that the Ibadan convention had violated electoral laws, the constitution, and the party’s bylaws, thereby invalidating the convention that produced Turaki and his committee.
