PDP Crisis Deepens as Wike Challenges Makinde Faction to Open Party Account, Secretariat
PDP Crisis Deepens as Wike Challenges Makinde Faction to Open Party Account, Secretariat
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has escalated the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the faction linked to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to prove its legitimacy by opening a party bank account and establishing an official secretariat.
Wike issued the challenge during a media interaction in Abuja, insisting that any group claiming control of the PDP must demonstrate it through legally recognized structures and processes. He argued that authentic party leadership should be backed by verifiable documentation and institutional authority.
According to him, opening an official account for party transactions—such as nomination fees—would serve as a key test of legitimacy. He added that financial institutions typically require proper authorization and recognized party leadership before approving such requests, suggesting that the rival faction may lack the legal standing to operate.
Beyond financial requirements, Wike also challenged the group to establish a physical party secretariat in Abuja. He warned that any unauthorized office operating under the PDP name could face regulatory action, emphasizing the need to uphold order within the Federal Capital Territory.
Wike further accused the faction of ignoring judicial pronouncements and attempting to mislead party members and the public regarding its status. He maintained that existing legal decisions clearly define who should manage the party’s affairs pending a properly conducted convention.
The development highlights deepening divisions within the PDP, as rival factions continue to contest control of the party’s structure. Political observers believe the outcome of the dispute could significantly influence the party’s unity and future electoral prospects.
