Nyesom Wike Attends PDP 2026 Convention, Threatens Governors Who Left PDP

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has fired a fresh salvo at governors who dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after winning elections on its platform.

Speaking at the party’s 2026 National Convention in Abuja on Sunday, Wike declared that the PDP would reclaim every mandate taken away by defectors. “All of you who took our mandate, we will take it back,” he told loyalists in a voice laced with determination. He described the wave of exits as proof that some leaders lack the courage to stay and fight during tough times.

NaijaChoice News reports that the outspoken minister made the remarks while addressing party faithful at the convention organised by the faction led by Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed. Wike praised those who remained steadfast, saying they showed “leadership character and resilience” when others fled. He likened the defectors to politicians who abandon ship at the slightest crisis.

The PDP has suffered heavy losses in recent months. Governors including Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Peter Mbah of Enugu, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Caleb Muftwang of Plateau and others crossed to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke moved to the Accord Party. Only Bauchi’s Bala Mohammed and Oyo’s Seyi Makinde remain with the PDP.

“All of you who took our mandate, we will take it back.”

– Wike threatens to defeat PDP Governors who left the party.

🤡 🤡 pic.twitter.com/mH7DqiEXxr

— Thεό Abu (@TheoAbuAgada) March 29, 2026

Wike did not stop at general criticism. He singled out states like Taraba, Bayelsa and Plateau, urging local party members to prepare for “operation show your report card” and take back power in the next election cycle. He insisted the party would not be undermined by those who benefited from its platform only to jump ship.

Political watchers say Wike’s hardline stance reflects the deep cracks within the opposition. The former Rivers governor, now serving in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, has positioned himself as a key voice in the PDP’s renewal effort despite the party’s internal divisions. His comments come as the PDP tries to rebuild ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Supporters of the minister hailed his boldness, describing it as a clear signal that the PDP is far from finished. Critics, however, see it as another layer of the ongoing power struggle that has weakened the party’s structure across several states.

As the political temperature rises, attention now turns to how the PDP national leadership will respond to Wike’s challenge and whether the remaining loyalists can translate words into action at the polls.