The factional leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party in the South-South zone has criticised the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Ajibola Basiru, over comments linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The PDP said the remarks were unacceptable and warned that they could affect political unity and future electoral outcomes.
The party made its position known in a statement released on Tuesday by the PDP South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Prince Etim Isong. He accused Basiru of launching a personal attack on Wike and said such actions could weaken support for President Bola Tinubu, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Isong questioned Basiru’s standing to speak on Rivers State politics, noting that he failed to deliver electoral victories for the APC in Osun State during the 2023 elections. He also stated that political structures in Rivers State were built through Wike’s influence and efforts, which continue to shape the state’s political direction.
The PDP expressed concern that Basiru’s comments came at a time when political tensions remain high across the country. The party warned that statements capable of causing division in Rivers State could weaken one of the key support bases for the ruling party and the president.
The South-South PDP leadership further described Basiru’s call for Wike’s resignation as unfair and misguided, insisting that the minister remains a central political figure in Rivers State and beyond. The party said Wike’s role in national and state politics cannot be ignored or dismissed by officials of another party.
The PDP advised Basiru to stay away from Rivers State politics and issued a 48-hour deadline for him to apologise to Wike and the people of the state. The party warned that failure to do so could lead to his rejection within the state.
According to the statement, Wike remains a strong political force whose influence could shape the outcome of future elections in Rivers State, including the prospects of political parties and candidates in 2027. The PDP concluded by urging political leaders to act with restraint and avoid actions that could deepen divisions.