The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faces an uphill task in the 2027 presidential election unless it first resolves its internal crisis and rebuilds its political structure across the country.
Speaking during a media chat on Thursday, Wike stressed that no political party can expect to win the presidency without first strengthening its grassroots presence and putting its internal affairs in order.
He also rejected the notion that Nigeria’s democracy depends on the participation of a few opposition politicians, saying democracy is bigger than any individual.
“Democracy is not about only Atiku contesting or only Peter Obi contesting,” Wike said.
The former Rivers State governor noted that the PDP’s current internal challenges make a presidential victory difficult, adding that rebuilding the party should take priority over focusing on the 2027 election.
“You have not even put your house in order, yet you want to win a presidential election. Do you know what it takes to have structures in all 36 states? It is not a two-month programme,” he stated.
According to Wike, political parties should first focus on winning at the state and grassroots levels before setting their sights on the presidency.
“Build the party, see what you can do at the state level, get the votes you can get, put your pieces together, then prepare,” he added.
Responding to past accusations that he was working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike dismissed the claims, insisting he has always been open about his position and repeatedly urged the PDP to address its internal problems.
He maintained that winning a presidential election requires years of planning, strong nationwide structures and unity within the party.
Source: Media chat by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
