Veteran journalist and former presidential aide Reuben Abati has said that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reasserted himself as a central figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), even as the party continues to grapple with internal divisions.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Monday, Abati highlighted that recent events in the PDP indicate a resurgence of Wike’s influence, particularly following competing party conventions and conflicting court rulings.
Abati noted that differing judgments from various courts—including those led by Justices Lifu, Omotosho, and Akintola, along with subsequent Court of Appeal decisions—have fueled uncertainty over which faction of the party holds legitimacy.
He questioned the authenticity of conventions organized by rival factions, including one reportedly held at Moshood Abiola Stadium, which was observed by a 13-member delegation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Wike has established himself as a national leader of the party, as it was a triumph for his wing,” Abati said, emphasizing that public perception reflects growing support for the minister at the national level.
However, he added that legal ambiguity persists. “If you look at the rulings of Justices Lifu, Omotosho, Akintola, and the subsequent Court of Appeal judgments, they are not rubies—they are judgments. So which convention is now valid?” Abati asked.
He predicted continued political drama within the PDP as factions await definitive clarification, particularly from the Supreme Court regarding the legitimacy of rival party sections.
Despite the uncertainty, Abati underscored that Wike’s influence remains undeniable, with supporters viewing him as a key decision-maker and national leader within the party.
Abati also referenced Wike’s role in party politics at both national and state levels, describing recent conventions as a mixture of excitement and controversy.
“The lowest common denominator is that Wike has bounced back and established himself,” Abati concluded, noting that the PDP faces challenges in maintaining unity amid ongoing internal disputes.
