Wike Declares PDP Crisis Over, Urges Defectors to Return

|By Chinwendu Nwani

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been resolved, calling on former members to return and contribute to rebuilding the party.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike described politics as a competitive but non-hostile engagement, likening it to a football match rather than a battle of no return.

He urged aggrieved stakeholders to put aside personal grievances and work towards unity and progress within the party.

“As far as I’m concerned, the convention has come and gone. People are trooping in. The door is open. Yes, we have had a crisis. Now the crisis is over. Do we still have to shut our doors? No. Certainly not,” he said.

The former Rivers State governor disclosed that several individuals who had distanced themselves from the party were already indicating interest in returning, noting that the current political atmosphere presents an opportunity for renewed participation.

Wike also criticised the “do-or-die” approach often associated with Nigerian politics, warning that such attitudes hinder reconciliation efforts and deepen divisions.

“Politics is not a fight to finish. It’s like a game, like football. If you see it as do-or-die, reconciliation becomes difficult. We have had our differences, but if you’re sincere, there is nothing left. We can move forward together,” he added.

He further cautioned politicians against relying solely on titles for relevance, stressing that consistent engagement and active participation remain essential for political visibility and influence.

Wike warned that individuals who fail to remain active within party structures risk being sidelined in the future.