By Adesakin Adefemi
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has cautioned Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, against engaging in political battles without the capacity to sustain them. Wike made the remarks during the 107th National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party, held on Monday.
Wike’s comments come after Makinde claimed that politicians aligning with a faction of the PDP backed by Wike were supporting the re-election of President Bola Tinubu. Makinde made the statement during a closed-door meeting with Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi, and Seriake Dickson, senator representing Bayelsa West, at the Bauchi government house on Sunday.
In response, Wike dismissed Makinde’s claims, describing them as misleading. “He (Makinde) said he had a meeting with the president and me. That is very unfortunate. It is unfortunate that a fight you cannot fight, you started. Politics is not contract work,” Wike said.
Wike used the moment to draw a distinction between politics and private business interests, stressing that the two should not be confused. “You wanted money; I wanted power. Stay where you are as a contractor,” he added.
The minister also warned party members against engaging in unnecessary confrontations, noting that political success depends more on strategy than bold rhetoric. He urged members to demonstrate loyalty and commitment or risk being sidelined.
Looking ahead to the party’s March 29-30 national convention, Wike emphasized the need for unity within the party. He urged leaders to intensify reconciliation efforts while maintaining sincerity among members.
Wike’s comments have sparked reactions, with some seeing it as a sign of internal conflict within the PDP. Others have praised Wike for speaking out against what they see as Makinde’s attempts to undermine the party.
The PDP has been facing internal divisions, with some members aligning themselves with different factions. Wike’s comments are seen as an attempt to assert his influence within the party.
The outcome of the national convention is being closely watched, with many expecting a showdown between different factions of the party.
