“If you want to destroy this party, dare it—bring Obi,” declared Nyesom Wike, Federal Capital Territory Minister and former Rivers State governor, in a recent media briefing. Wike issued this chilling warning against the possibility of the PDP welcoming back former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.([turn0view0])

A Blow to Party Integrity

Wike’s concern stems from internal PDP fractures that cost the party dearly in the 2023 elections. He argued that allowing both the presidential candidate and national chairman to come from the North—without equitable zoning—was politically suicidal.([turn0view0]) Wike stressed the importance of regional balance, condemning the simultaneous control of both positions by Northerners as an internal “theft” that ignited the party’s decline. Feeling vindicated by the outcome, he added, “I have no regret for it.”([turn0view0])

He described Obi’s potential return as “dangerous and hypocritical”: “Obi who criticized the PDP as rotten—now wants to come back? That’s ambition over principle.”

Internal Response and Broader Party Outlook

Reinforcing Wike’s message, Vanguard highlighted that bringing Obi back would deal the PDP a fatal blow—reviving internal strife and betrayal.([turn0search0])

Simultaneously, The Nation confirmed ongoing discussions between the PDP and Obi, affirming the party’s cautious interest but signaling no formal decision yet.([turn0search5])

This aligns with Wike’s insistence on the party’s commitment to zoning, equity, and internal justice as prerequisites for unity—his terms for any reconciliation before the next election cycle.