By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Federal Capital Territory, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has declared that nothing will stop the PDP national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30. 

Speaking at the 107th NEC meeting in Abuja, he expressed full confidence in the party’s leadership to execute the event.

The Minister stressed that while reconciliation talks with the Tanimu Turaki-led faction are ongoing, they will not delay the convention. Wike noted, “I have said earlier that we’ll continue to build on the unity of this party and, therefore, when two brothers fight, there’s room for reconciliation.”

Wike issued a stern warning to “fair-weather” members who only remain in the party to secure election tickets. He insisted on total loyalty, stating, “I don’t want those who want to use us, for the purposes of having tickets; and then after that, you dump the party. Let it not be so.”

Addressing fears regarding the lack of support from sitting governors, Wike argued that political victory does not depend on such backing. Drawing from his own experience, he remarked, “People are always afraid because they don’t have a governor in their state. That is not correct. We didn’t have a governor, but we won a governorship election in my state.”

The Minister dismissed the influence of money and state allocations, criticizing former allies who have since left the party. Emphasizing the need for integrity, Wike stated, “Money is not everything in this world. Money has a limitation… You see: when you are working with people who don’t have characte the right thing must be done.”

Wike also expressed disappointment in Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde regarding public comments about the judiciary and their past interactions.

Referring to the legal disputes within the party, he observed, “It’s unfortunate: a fight you cannot fight, you started.”

In his final remarks, Wike urged members to commit fully to the party now or face exclusion after the convention. He concluded, “As I am, we have got to the point where, if anybody believes that any other thing will happen, I want to tell the person it’s not correct. If anybody believes that there’s any other hope aside this place, the person is joking.”