We regret giving Wike our platform – Makinde-backed PDP slams FCT minister

A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over what it described as controversial remarks made during a recent media appearance.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the group condemned Wike’s comments, describing them as an “unsolicited display of political recklessness” and accusing him of attacking respected Nigerians without restraint.

The statement further described the minister’s media outing as inappropriate, alleging that it was publicly funded and lacked decorum, adding that it amounted to “a performance full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”

The PDP faction said its response was not to engage directly with the substance of Wike’s claims, but rather to apologise to Nigerians for previously supporting his rise to positions of authority, including as governor and minister.

“We regret offering a platform to a person whose conduct and utterances have become a national embarrassment,” the statement said.

It also urged individuals allegedly defamed by the minister to seek legal redress, stressing that no one is above the law.

On internal party issues, the group dismissed claims regarding the existence of a “National Leader” position within the PDP, noting that such a role is not recognised in the party’s constitution.

The statement added that ongoing party activities, including the sale of nomination forms and preparations for primaries and a national convention, would proceed as planned.

It further suggested that Wike’s remarks may be linked to dissatisfaction over his perceived inability to influence the party’s direction, particularly regarding the emergence of its presidential candidate.

The PDP faction also addressed legal matters referenced by the minister, stating that it was awaiting Certified True Copies of relevant court judgments and challenged Wike and his associates to clarify the issues publicly.