Wike Vows to Guard PDP Against ‘Vampires,’ Eyes Oyo State Politics

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared his close monitoring of the Peoples Democratic Party’s affairs in Oyo State, asserting his commitment to the party’s survival amid internal crises.

Speaking at the PDP’s 105th National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja on Monday, the former Rivers State governor framed his interest as national, not parochial. “Let me declare my interest clearly: I am interested in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in all the happenings in Oyo State PDP,” Wike stated.

He issued a strong warning against elements he described as “vampires” attempting to hijack the party’s structure across all states and the FCT, vowing that such efforts would be resisted.

Addressing the party’s ongoing legal and organizational challenges, Wike argued that recent court rulings had weakened threats of intimidation against members. He emphasized the need for the party to follow the guidance of its Caretaker Committee to conduct overdue congresses and ultimately a credible National Convention.

Wike dismissed the notion that a party’s strength relies solely on having sitting governors, urging a return to grassroots mobilization. “Forget the idea that this is a charity organisation. Many people move from place to place without any political identity,” he cautioned.

While acknowledging peace appeals from the party’s Board of Trustees and National Working Committee, Wike called for vigilance. “Yes, the BoT has appealed for peace… But those of us following the process must be extremely careful. We must be vigilant,” he said, expressing confidence that attempts to destabilize the PDP would fail.

The NEC meeting took place against the backdrop of a recent Federal High Court ruling which nullified the PDP’s November 2025 National Convention and affirmed the Caretaker Committee as the legitimate leadership. A party faction has since scheduled a new national convention for March 28 and 29, 2026, in Abuja.