The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described the recent judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja as a fresh opportunity for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rebuild and reposition itself as a strong political force in Nigeria.
Reacting to the ruling which nullified the party’s convention held on November 15 and 16, 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Wike welcomed the judgment and described it as a victory for the rule of law and democratic principles within the party.
The former governor of Rivers State urged members of the PDP to seize the moment to reconcile their differences and work collectively toward restoring unity in the party.
According to him, the prolonged internal disputes and legal battles have weakened the PDP’s ability to function effectively as Nigeria’s leading opposition party, warning that continued litigation could deepen divisions and further damage the party’s prospects ahead of future elections.
Wike specifically cautioned against taking the matter to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, arguing that such a move could prolong the crisis and distract the party from urgent political preparations.
He pointed out that political party primaries for upcoming elections are expected to begin in April and May, stressing that the PDP cannot afford to remain entangled in legal disputes at such a critical period.
“By the time you go to the Supreme Court, you are merely causing harm to your party which you say you love,” Wike said.
He added that party leaders and stakeholders must now put aside personal interests and focus on rebuilding the PDP into a formidable political platform capable of effectively challenging the ruling party.
“It is time now to say we have fought; let us drop our personal interest and make sure PDP becomes the number one opposition party,” he stated.
The Court of Appeal ruling that voided the Ibadan convention has been widely seen as a significant development in the ongoing internal crisis within the PDP, which has been marked by disputes among key stakeholders over party leadership and organisational processes.
Political observers believe the verdict could force party leaders to return to the negotiating table in order to resolve their differences and chart a new course for the party.
Wike also emphasised the need for discipline and respect for party structures, noting that unity and internal cohesion would be critical if the PDP hopes to regain public confidence and strengthen its position in Nigeria’s political landscape.
He urged party members across the country to prioritise reconciliation and dialogue, stressing that the survival and growth of the PDP depend on the willingness of its leaders to place the collective interest of the party above individual ambitions.
Analysts say the coming weeks will be crucial for the PDP as it seeks to manage the aftermath of the court ruling while preparing for upcoming political activities, including party primaries and broader efforts to reposition itself ahead of future electoral contests.
