Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and a leading figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, has urged party members to prepare for an intense political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that political power must be earned through determination, sacrifice and hard work.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday while addressing the party’s 109th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, where he challenged members to remain focused and committed despite the party’s current position in opposition.
According to the former Rivers State governor, political power is never handed over willingly and can only be secured through sustained effort and resilience.
“Nobody gives power. Power is taken. You must fight for it to take it. Nobody gives power, and nobody is ready to dash you of power. You have to struggle for it. You have to fight for it. You don’t have to be afraid,” Wike told party faithful.
Reflecting on his political experience, he encouraged aspirants and party members not to be discouraged by intimidation, arrests or legal disputes, describing such challenges as part of the political process.
Addressing concerns over ongoing court cases involving the party, Wike maintained that the PDP remained focused on its preparations for future elections and would not be distracted by legal battles.
“As far as I am concerned, June 26 is when they will give the access code to political parties to upload results. Don’t worry, we are good to go. Nobody is afraid of court; courts are meant for human beings, not ghosts,” he said.
The former governor also suggested that some members were finding it difficult to adjust to life outside government after years of enjoying the privileges that came with being in power.
“So most of you always used to come and take when PDP was in power, like spoiled children every day, depending on what their father had provided. It appears your father is sick now, nobody to provide, you think that the whole world has ended,” he remarked.
Wike challenged party leaders and aspirants to focus on producing tangible political results rather than offering excuses, insisting that every member must contribute meaningfully to the party’s rebuilding efforts.
“Everybody, go home, bring something, and put it on the table in 2027. If you bring the House of Representatives, you have done something. If you bring an assembly member, you have done something. But don’t come here, this is not a place of empty hands,” he said.
He further urged members to remain steadfast despite political pressure and intimidation.
“If they want to kill you, die and leave this thing you are looking for. The people will arrest you; be strong. The people who will arrest you are also human beings. Use me as an example. I’ve seen everything, intimidation, everything,” he added.
Despite acknowledging the party’s challenges, Wike expressed optimism that the PDP would remain a significant force in Nigerian politics after the next election cycle.
“After the 2027 elections, we’ll come back here and thank God for keeping our party alive. Yes, we are not in a strong position to say we must get everything, but with a strong opposition, to be relevant and decide our future,” he stated.
Earlier in his address, PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed called on members to embrace unity and work together as the party prepares for upcoming electoral contests.
He commended state chapters, party leaders and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for successfully conducting recent primary elections and sustaining party structures across the country.
Mohammed also acknowledged Wike’s continued role in the affairs of the party, praising what he described as the minister’s support and guidance.
“Our objective is not merely to win elections but to offer visionary leadership capable of addressing the pressing challenges facing our nation and delivering tangible benefits to all Nigerians,” he said.
The PDP chairman expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide a fair electoral environment and urged all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions.
He also applauded security agencies for maintaining order during the party’s primary elections and congratulated candidates who emerged victorious.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, appealed for reconciliation within the party and urged members to prioritise unity ahead of future elections.
Explaining the postponement of the Board of Trustees meeting, Ohuabunwa said the decision was taken to allow adequate preparation by both the Board of Trustees and the National Working Committee secretariats.
He congratulated candidates who emerged from the party’s various primaries and called on members to rally behind those chosen to fly the party’s flag in future elections.