Samuel Marshall
The disciplinary committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is reportedly conceiving to address several complaints, including ones against Chief Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State and the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The committee, chaired by Chief Tom Ikimi, a former Minister of External Affairs, is likely to investigate disciplinary matters, such as allegations of anti-party activities by Wike during the 2023 presidential elections and recent threats attributed to him. These complaints have been lodged by dissatisfied party members, and the National Working Committee may review their credibility and decide on disciplinary actions.
It is noteworthy that Wike, along with governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo State), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu State), Samuel Ortom (Benue State), and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia State), had differed with the then-presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar over the position of the former National Chairman, insisting that it should be held by a Southerner.
PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, reportedly stated that Wike and other accused members have been summoned to appear before the disciplinary panel. However, former senator Chief Olaka Nwogu, a member of the Disciplinary Committee, refuted the reports, explaining that the committee had not yet discussed issues concerning the Minister:
“There are allegations that are flying all over the place, and even the committee’s work is being put in a different light from what the committee has tried to do. The committee is still organizing itself to now look at its functions,” Nwogu remarked.
Many have criticized Wike’s recent controversial outbursts directed at PDP governors who support Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the legitimate leader of the political structures in the State. Reports indicate that Wike has allegedly threatened to “set fire to their States.”
Should the allegations against Wike be substantiated, it may lead to significant repercussions for both Wike and the PDP. There are growing concerns among party members and leaders, who perceive Wike’s actions as a deviation from the party’s collective goals.
In a development contrasting with the standpoints of the PDP governors, the National Working Committee of the Party has ratified the results of the Congress conducted by Wike’s faction in Rivers State.
The Ikimi-led Committee, tasked with ensuring party discipline and loyalty, has the authority to summon members and conduct a fair and thorough investigation.
The potential consequences of such an investigation could have a domino effect across the party. Being one of the major financiers of the party, Wike’s absence from the party could have financial implications for upcoming elections. Additionally, his influence in the South-South region could also be affected, which could lead to a shift in political power.
Wike’s loyalists, who spoke to the Newswriter, have said that they remain confident in his unwavering dedication to the party and are optimistic about his ability to overcome these challenges.***
