Wike: Opposition Credibility Requires Electoral Wins, Not Coalitions

By Toffa Momoh

ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has said opposition status must be earned through victories at the polls, not through rhetoric or emergency coalitions.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Peoples Democratic Party national headquarters at Wadata House, Abuja, Wike pledged loyalty to the party’s newly elected National Working Committee and urged unity as the PDP rebuilds.

“You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those who say they are leading the opposition have not contested any election successfully,” Wike said.

He dismissed claims by smaller political groups positioning themselves as leading opposition voices, insisting that performance at the polls remains the true test of relevance. The comments come amid political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike acknowledged the PDP had faced significant internal crises but said the party was gradually emerging from them. “Yes, we have crisis, and we have almost come out of it. It will require hard work and sacrifice to move the party forward,” he said.

He urged the NWC to prioritise reconciliation and reach out to members who had defected. “Most are concerned about opportunities, including tickets. You know what to do,” he advised.

The minister also cautioned against distractions from legal battles, noting the party had won recent cases at the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal. “The same God will see us through. Stay focused and work as a team,” he added.

PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed said the new leadership would reposition the party and restore public confidence. “We have capable hands and we are determined to lead the party to a higher level. We will not disappoint Nigerians,” he said.

He stressed that the PDP remained a viable platform for national leadership and would intensify efforts to secure electoral victories in 2027.

National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu commended Wike’s continued support, describing the visit as a significant boost to the morale of the party’s leadership.

Wike was received by Mohammed, Anyanwu, and Deputy National Chairman (South) Aaron Chukwuemeka.