Sanction Wike Now, Youth Group Urges PDP

A coalition of youth organizations advocating for democratic governance has called on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to take decisive action against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for allegedly threatening the stability of PDP-controlled states. The group expressed strong support for the PDP’s decision to summon Wike, insisting that it is time for the former Rivers State governor to face consequences for his alleged anti-party activities.

The coalition’s reaction stems from Wike’s recent remarks, where he allegedly threatened to create political crises in states governed by PDP. He also demanded that the party structure in Rivers State be handed over to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. In a statement released on Tuesday, the coalition accused Wike of crossing the line and urged the PDP to either suspend or expel him from the party.

The statement, signed by the coalition’s Director-General, Mohammed Abubakar Jibo, emphasized that Wike’s actions have been detrimental to the party, particularly referencing his alleged role in undermining the PDP during the 2023 presidential election. The group claims that Wike’s support for the current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC, was a significant factor in the PDP’s loss.

The coalition criticized Wike’s recent comments as “reckless and indecorous,” defending the PDP Governors’ Forum’s resolution to support Governor Fubara. They argued that the forum’s decision to consult with the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) on leadership matters in Rivers State did not justify Wike’s threats.

“We, as a coalition of youth organizations for democracy, good governance, and accountability, find Wike’s threats to be reckless and unbecoming of someone who has benefited so much from the PDP,” the statement read. “Given his history of anti-party activities, we not only support his invitation to appear before the PDP Disciplinary Committee but also call for his immediate suspension or expulsion from the party.”

The coalition further warned that Wike’s actions could endanger the unity of the PDP and pose a threat to Nigeria’s broader peace and stability. They reminded party members that the PDP is bigger than any individual and should not be used as a tool for personal manipulation.

In conclusion, the group expressed its support for the PDP Governors’ Forum’s efforts to restore the party’s structure to Governor Fubara in Rivers State. They also cautioned Wike against causing unrest in Bauchi State, which they described as the most peaceful state in the North-East.

“Governor Bala Mohammed has worked tirelessly to maintain peace and development in Bauchi State over the past five years. We do not welcome Wike’s influence here, as our state deserves to continue its progress without disruption,” the coalition stated.