PDP Crisis Deepens as Wike Rejects Proposal for New Caretaker Committee

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has rejected calls by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to establish a new caretaker committee, insisting that the party should proceed with its scheduled national convention.

The appeal for reconciliation emerged during the 86th meeting of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the 106th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party held in Abuja.
Speaking at the NEC meeting convened by the faction led by the Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee, Abdulrahman Mohammed, Wike stated that while his group remained open to reconciliation, any negotiations would take place from a position of strength following recent court rulings.
He stressed that the party’s planned national convention must take place as scheduled, rejecting proposals that another caretaker committee should be created to appease dissatisfied members.
“The party is making serious efforts for the convention to hold. They have paid the required fees and secured the venue. Therefore, no one should bring forward any suggestion about forming another caretaker committee. I will not accept that. The convention must go ahead, and everyone will be allowed to participate,” he said.
The FCT Minister also dismissed allegations that his role in the ruling party had weakened his loyalty to the PDP, insisting that he remains committed to the party.
“It was made to look as though I caused the problem because I am serving in an APC administration, but those who accused me are now in the APC, while I, who was accused, have not left the PDP,” he added.
Chairman of the BoT, Mao Ohuabunwa, while welcoming members to the 86th meeting of the board, described the period as a critical moment for the party and urged members to act with wisdom, restraint and unity.
“This gathering comes at a defining moment in the life of the PDP, one that requires not emotion or haste but wisdom, institutional memory and calm reflection,” he said.
He noted that the BoT, as the party’s ideological anchor, must provide direction and ensure that the long-term interests of the PDP and Nigerians remain the priority.
Ohuabunwa also pointed out that the party had made notable progress in its internal reorganisation with the successful conduct of ward and local government congresses nationwide.
“These exercises show that the PDP remains firmly rooted in participatory democracy and reflects the will of its grassroots members,” he said, expressing optimism that the upcoming state congresses would further strengthen the party’s structures across the country.
He further disclosed that preparations were ongoing for the PDP national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, which he said would give the party an opportunity to reposition itself and reaffirm its dedication to democratic principles and national service.
The BoT chairman also acknowledged the recent judgment of the Court of Appeal affirming the legality and authority of the caretaker leadership, describing the ruling as one that provides clarity and stability within the party.
Earlier, the Chairman of the caretaker committee, Mohammed, urged party stakeholders to embrace reconciliation and bring an end to the persistent legal disputes that have slowed the party’s activities.