Wike Reasserts Influence Amid PDP Crisis – Reuben Abati

: Competing conventions and court rulings highlight ongoing PDP infighting, but FCT Minister emerges as key national figure

Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Reuben Abati, has declared that Nyesom Wike has regained prominence within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite the party’s ongoing internal disputes.

Speaking on Arise Television Morning Show on Monday, Abati said recent developments, including rival conventions and conflicting court rulings, suggest a resurgence of Wike’s political influence at both state and national levels.

Court battles cloud party legitimacy

Abati highlighted the confusion caused by differing court judgments delivered by Justices Lifu, Omotosho, Akintola, and subsequent Court of Appeal rulings. These legal disputes have left uncertainty over which PDP faction is officially recognized.

He also questioned the legitimacy of the convention held at Moshood Abiola Stadium, which was monitored by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that debates over its authenticity persist.

Wike’s growing leadership role

Despite the legal and political uncertainty, Abati said Wike has consolidated his position within the party. “Nyesom Wike has established himself as the national leader of the party,” he stated. “People on the streets are seeing him as a leading figure in the PDP, regardless of ongoing disputes over conventions and court rulings.”

Abati added that the drama in the PDP is far from over, as the Supreme Court is expected to eventually settle disputes between Wike’s faction and rival groups, including the Turaki-led camp.

“The weekend of conventions was filled with excitement and tension,” Abati said. “But the key takeaway is that Wike has bounced back and is shaping the party’s direction at both national and state levels.”

The veteran journalist emphasized that while the PDP struggles with internal divisions, Wike’s influence appears resilient, positioning him as a central figure in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 elections.