The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has hailed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja stopping the planned 2025 National Convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as a victory against impunity within the party.
Justice James Omotosho, in his ruling on Friday, restrained the PDP from proceeding with its national convention until it complies with the party’s constitution, statutory requirements, and the Electoral Act. The court also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing any outcome from a convention conducted in violation of due process.
Reacting to the verdict while addressing PDP stakeholders from 12 states and the FCT, Wike described the ruling as “one of the happiest yet saddest days” of his life — happy that justice prevailed, but saddened by the deepening crisis within the party.
“We are happy that we have fought impunity, but we are not happy with what is going on in the party. It has never been this bad in the PDP,” Wike said.
Among those present at the meeting were former governors Samuel Ortom (Benue) and Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, and several PDP state chairmen.
Wike stressed that true leadership requires humility and recognition of the sacrifices made by party stakeholders, warning that arrogance and disregard for due process would only deepen internal divisions.
He urged party members to remain steadfast in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the PDP operates in line with its constitutional provisions.
“Nobody will be intimidated; we will do what is right. What I expect the governors to do now is to use state resources to improve the lives of citizens, not to destroy our party,” he added.