Wike insists PDP united ahead of convention, dismisses faction claims amid internal tensions

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed suggestions that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is divided, insisting the opposition party remains unified despite internal disagreements among its members.

Wike made the remarks on Wednesday while speaking with journalists after inspecting ongoing and completed infrastructure projects across Abuja ahead of the party’s planned national convention.

“There is only one PDP,” he said, rejecting claims of factionalisation within the party.

“I don’t know which camp you are talking about. There is only one PDP. Some individuals may not be happy, yes, but there is no faction,” Wike added, stressing that internal disputes should not be mistaken for a split.

He noted that efforts to reconcile differing interests within the party could continue even as preparations for the convention progress.

“That there is convention does not mean there won’t be reconciliation. Everything has its own time,” he said.

Beyond party politics, Wike used the opportunity to highlight ongoing infrastructure projects under the FCT Administration, stating that the government remains committed to monitoring construction quality and ensuring timely delivery.

He disclosed that a bridge project near the Fire Service headquarters in Abuja is nearing completion, with contractors assuring delivery within five months.

According to him, the administration prioritises quality in project execution.

“From what we have seen, it is a very quality job. I commend the company,” he said.

Wike also confirmed that the N5 road project handled by Julius Berger has been completed and will be commissioned during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

During an inspection at the Nigerian Law School, Wike expressed satisfaction with the delivery of staff accommodation, noting that 10 staff bungalows had been completed and fully furnished.

However, he raised concerns over delays in the construction of the male hostel, despite praising the progress of the female hostel project.

“I am quite impressed with the female hostel, but I am not impressed with the level of work on the male hostel. They were awarded at the same time,” he said.

He added that contractors had assured completion of the remaining work by October or November.

Wike described the intervention at the Nigerian Law School as unprecedented, noting that it marks the first time such a level of infrastructure support has been provided to the institution.

“This is the first time a government is trying to provide basic infrastructure for the Nigerian Law School,” he said.

Addressing concerns about funding, the minister attributed the FCT Administration’s performance to careful financial management and strong political commitment.

“It is not about the amount of money, but commitment. You can have all the money and still not achieve results if you are not committed,” he said.

He explained that the administration relies largely on internally generated revenue and only approves projects it has the capacity to fund.

“Projects we don’t have money for, we will not award them,” he stated.

Wike also credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting infrastructure development in the capital, saying that the backing has helped sustain progress across the FCT.

“The momentum we are getting is because we have a President who believes in providing infrastructure. That support makes the difference,” he added.

The minister assured residents that all ongoing projects would be delivered on schedule, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure and public services in Abuja.