Wike Warns PDP May Collapse from Self-Interest, Predicts 2027 Defeat

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, has issued a stark warning that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could destroy itself through internal selfish interests, jeopardizing its chances in the 2027 general elections.

Wike made the statement on Monday during his monthly press briefing in Abuja, where he criticized the party’s leadership, strategic direction, and response to recent defections.

“Leadership is key. If you don’t show the right leadership, you will suffer for it—and that’s exactly what’s happening to the PDP,” Wike declared. 

Referring to the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike defended their decision, questioning the backlash they received.

“What wrong did he do? That he said he was going to support Tinubu that was the crime,” Wike asked.
“But the Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, who’s supposed to be the conscience of the party, adopted Alex Otti of the Labour Party for a second term and no one is talking about that.”

Wike called out what he described as hypocrisy and selective outrage within the PDP, stating that opposition parties cannot afford impunity if they want to be taken seriously by the electorate.

“You’re Focused on Wike, But You’ve Ignored the Mission”

Wike expressed frustration that his role as a minister under the APC-led government has become a fixation for PDP critics, while more pressing party issues are being ignored.

“Rather than reorganize and strategize, they are after Wike,” he said.
“Meanwhile, I’m the only former governor who didn’t support the PDP presidential candidate but delivered 100% victory for the party in the governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections.”

He challenged other governors, past and present, to match his electoral results, implying that the party lacks cohesion and strategy to win nationally.

Wike cautioned the PDP not to repeat the strategic errors that cost it the 2023 presidential election. He warned that exclusionary politics and backdoor schemes will only backfire.

“If PDP doesn’t take care, watch what will happen. Selfish interest can kill an organization. You haven’t even won an election, yet you’re excluding people,” he said.
“This so-called smartness you’re playing it won’t help you. I’m telling you now: stop the smartness.”

Wike’s statements reflect growing internal tensions within the PDP, as prominent figures continue to defect or criticize the party's trajectory. His remarks are likely to stir further debate ahead of the 2027 election cycle.