WIKE: OPPOSITION STATUS MUST BE EARNED, NOT CLAIMED

By: Wisdom Acka

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national leader, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims by smaller political groups positioning themselves as Nigeria’s leading opposition.

This is as he declared that credibility as an opposition force is earned through electoral victories -not rhetoric or hasty coalitions.

Speaking during a visit to PDP’s national headquarters in Abuja on Friday, 17 April, 2026, Wike reaffirmed his loyalty to the party’s newly elected National Working Committee (NWC), stressing that relevance in opposition politics is proven at the ballot box.

“You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those claiming to lead the opposition have not successfully contested any polls,” he stated.

Abuja Digest reports that the Minister’s comments come amid heightened political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with parties maneuvering for influence.

“I am here to pledge my loyalty to the NWC and assure you of my support,” he said. “Yes, we’ve faced challenges, but we are gradually overcoming them. Moving forward requires hard work and sacrifice.”

The Minister urged the party leadership to prioritize reconciliation, particularly with defected members who still harbor interest in the PDP. “Reach out to them. Many are concerned about opportunities, including tickets. You know what to do,” he advised.

Wike also downplayed distractions from ongoing legal battles, expressing confidence in the party’s resilience. “We’ve won at the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. The same God will see us through. Stay focused and work as a team.”

In his response, PDP National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed assured that the new leadership was committed to repositioning the party and restoring public trust. “We have capable hands and will not disappoint Nigerians,” he said, emphasizing the PDP’s readiness to reclaim its dominance in 2027.

The party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, praised Wike’s visit as a morale booster, signaling the party’s determination to reassert itself amid Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.