POLITICS
Edo Election: Wike reveals why he will not support PDP candidate in Edo Gubernatorial poll
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, abruptly declared yesterday that he will not support his party in the upcoming governorship election in Edo State.
Wike’s announcement comes after media reports claimed he donated large sums to the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign council in Edo State.
In an apparent attempt to shift attention away from these reports, the minister quickly stated that he would not be supporting his party due to Governor Godwin Obaseki being an “ingrate.”
Earlier in the day, news of Wike’s donation to the APC’s governorship campaign in Edo State went viral on social media.
This controversial move, despite Wike being a member of the PDP, highlights growing tensions within the party ahead of the Edo State election on September 21, 2024.
Wike has had a long-standing conflict with Obaseki, accusing him of not supporting his presidential aspirations during the PDP’s 2023 primary in Abuja.
Sources close to Wike suggest his grudge against Obaseki has evolved from a personal disagreement to a broader vendetta against the PDP.
“Wike hasn’t forgiven Obaseki for not backing his presidential bid. He was counting on support from all PDP governors, and Obaseki’s refusal marked a turning point. Since then, Wike has vowed to make sure the governor pays for it,” said a source within Wike’s political camp.
Wike’s financial support for the APC in Edo is being interpreted as an open act of defiance against his party.
Additionally, Wike has been accused of using his influence to manipulate the electoral process in favor of the APC.
Insiders report that Wike has strategically placed his loyalists in key roles within the Nigeria Police Force and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) since becoming FCT Minister.
“Wike has already positioned some of his loyalists in critical roles within the police and INEC. He’s pulling all the strings to ensure the election favors the APC.
“He’s determined to see Obaseki and the PDP lose, using his influence in Abuja to make it happen,” said a political analyst familiar with the situation.
The allegations have sparked significant concerns about the integrity of the upcoming election, with some political analysts warning that Wike’s actions could undermine the fairness of the process.
These accusations have led to calls for increased transparency and oversight to prevent undue influence on the election.
Wike’s recent actions are not without precedent. Over the past year, he has openly criticized the PDP and has been seen forming alliances with various APC figures, raising concerns within both parties.
His appointment as FCT Minister in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, despite being a PDP member, was viewed by many as a sign of his eventual defection to the APC.
Wike has reportedly confided in close associates that his ultimate goal is to dismantle the PDP before joining the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sources say Wike feels betrayed by the PDP for not supporting his presidential ambition and believes the party has failed him.
“Wike has told his inner circle that he’s done with the PDP. He feels betrayed and is determined to bring down the party before leaving.
“His plan is to weaken the PDP as much as possible and then make his move to the APC,” revealed one of his associates.
Wike’s alleged anti-party activities have not gone unnoticed within the PDP. Growing frustration has been expressed by many members over his continued disloyalty and open collaboration with the APC.
Some party members have even called for his suspension or expulsion, arguing that his actions are damaging the PDP’s unity and reputation.
“We can’t tolerate this level of betrayal any longer. Wike has crossed the line, and the PDP leadership must take firm action or risk losing more members to this kind of disloyalty,” said a PDP official, speaking anonymously.
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