In a strong reaction to recent remarks made by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), governors elected under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have labelled his threats to instigate violence in their states as reckless, irresponsible, and completely intolerable.
During a factional PDP Congress in Port Harcourt, Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, expressed his frustration at perceived attempts by some governors to undermine the party’s structure. He ominously claimed, “Let me assure all of you, not while we live will anybody take away the structure of the PDP from us. I pity those Governors because I will put fire in their states.”
Responding to these alarming comments, the PDP governors issued a statement on Tuesday, signed by their Director General, Emmanuel Agbo, reaffirming their unwavering support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.
The statement emphasized that no one is above the law, urging national security leaders to heed Wike’s incendiary threats. It read, “Wike’s statements undermine efforts to foster peace, collaboration, and mutual respect within our party. Regrettably, such comments come from a former governor who once benefitted from our collective support during his tenure.”
The governors reiterated their commitment to the principle of “A Touch One Touch All,” which underscores their solidarity in the face of adversity. They asserted that their stance regarding PDP affairs in Rivers State, as agreed in previous meetings, is non-negotiable, regardless of Wike’s position.
Furthermore, they highlighted that their commitment to the PDP’s unity is paramount. The recent actions of the governors, especially their backing of Fubara, reflect a dedication to the party’s core values of collaboration and progress. The statement called for all members, including Wike, to set aside personal grievances and focus on shared objectives.
The governors also urged the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation to address the ongoing tensions in Rivers State. They advocated for a spirit of compromise among all parties involved, stressing the need for constructive engagement rather than incendiary rhetoric.
Encouraging ongoing discussions and reconciliation, the governors pointed out that the PDP has established mechanisms, including disciplinary and reconciliation committees, to resolve conflicts. They urged Wike to participate in these processes to foster understanding and strengthen party unity.
The statement reminded all involved that no individual is above the law, and urged national security officials to take Wike’s threats seriously to prevent any escalation of violence.
