April 9, 2024 – Dele Momodu, a former presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has voiced strong criticisms against Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State, for his perceived betrayal of the party. According to Momodu, even though Wike has taken a position as the FCT minister in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, he is still viewed with suspicion within the president’s camp.
Wike’s support for Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, after a dispute with PDP leadership over the nomination of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s candidate, has been a contentious issue. His subsequent appointment as FCT Minister, despite remaining a member of the PDP and without facing party sanctions, has added to the controversy.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Momodu accused Wike of attempting to undermine the PDP, stating, “Wike feels he is fooling Tinubu and his people. But Tinubu’s people know him very well.” He further highlighted Wike’s reputation for prioritizing power and monetary gain above all else, asserting that “There is no Nigerian today who does not know that Wike cannot be trusted in any matter, especially if it affects his interest in power.”
The rift between Wike and the PDP leadership has had significant implications, with the party losing the presidential election in Rivers State to the APC. Momodu criticized Wike’s actions as detrimental not just to the PDP but to his own political integrity. “What a man should know is that when you cut your nose, thinking you want to spite your face, you would look awkward,” Momodu remarked, indicating a sense of betrayal felt by the party.
Despite attempts at reconciliation, the divide between Wike and the PDP has persisted. Momodu expressed a personal stance on the matter, saying, “We have left him and we are watching him,” signaling a move forward for the party without Wike’s involvement. He also expressed his disappointment over the lack of disciplinary action against Wike, suggesting that sanctions would have been appropriate to maintain the party’s discipline and integrity.
This development underscores the ongoing internal challenges within the PDP, as it navigates the repercussions of the 2023 elections and seeks to consolidate its position ahead of future political contests.
