Give PDP Presidential Ticket to Wike to Avoid Mistakes of 2023 — Party Chieftain

In a recent media briefing in Uyo, Tom FredFish, a senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figure and Chairman of PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice (PAPAJ), urged the party to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South-South region and specifically to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike. FredFish argued that this move is essential to avoid repeating the mistakes of the 2023 elections and to restore peace within the party.

FredFish dismissed the PDP’s current reconciliation committee as ineffective, questioning its purpose without addressing the zoning arrangement. He emphasized that Wike is the most credible and powerful candidate in the southern part of Nigeria capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu. According to FredFish, the party’s southern governors lack strength, the PDP National Executive Committee is weakened, and the Board of Trustees is inactive, leaving Wike as the party’s strongest asset with the financial resources, influence, and judicial reach to revitalize the PDP.

He described Wike as the “soul” and “savior” of the party, insisting that the PDP should do everything possible—even if it means pleading for his forgiveness—to ensure Wike contests the 2027 presidential election. FredFish further stated that only Wike can prevent defections of key PDP members and governors.

Criticizing Senator Bukola Saraki’s efforts at reconciliation, FredFish urged the party to immediately zone the presidential ticket to the South-South. He highlighted Wike’s influence within the ruling APC, suggesting that Wike could potentially attract members back to the PDP from Tinubu’s camp.

FredFish also reproached Wike for what he called a two-faced attitude, accusing him of undermining the PDP by aligning with President Tinubu. He challenged the party to grant Wike the presidential ticket and observe whether Wike would resign as FCT Minister to pursue his ambition or continue to serve Tinubu while weakening the PDP.