Ayodele Fayose, the former Governor of Ekiti State, has issued a warning to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) regarding the possible expulsion of Nyesom Wike.
Wike had worked against the party’s interests in the 2023 presidential election and subsequently received an appointment in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
Despite allegations of anti-party activities by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Fayose advises the PDP against taking punitive actions against the former Rivers State governor.
“Some people are suggesting that we fight Wike, expel Wike, or sack Wike. I believe that doing so would be at our own peril. You see, in your family, even when you face extreme situations or disagreements, the first step is not to drive away your spouse. Wike is a formidable presence within the PDP and beyond; he is a force that cannot be ignored,” Fayose emphasized during a prerecorded appearance on Channels Television’s program “Hard Copy,” which airs on Friday nights.
Fayose stressed that disregarding, expelling, or confronting Wike could have consequences, given his significant influence and capacity within the PDP.
Fayose’s call for PDP unity and southern presidency
Instead, he urged the PDP to focus on unity and revitalizing the party, which secured the second position in the recent presidential election.
Regarding the presidency, Fayose reiterated his belief that the southern region of Nigeria should produce the next president, considering that the northern region had held the position.
Despite his divergence from the PDP’s choice of Atiku Abubakar, a northern candidate, Fayose remains committed to the party and disavowed any intention of joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or any other political group.
Fayose also addressed the recent wave of coups in Africa, attributing them to a “sit-tight” syndrome among leaders.
While he generally opposes military interference in politics, he expressed satisfaction with the developments in Gabon following a military seizure of power, emphasizing the importance of preventing leaders from holding onto power for extended periods.
“In a country where one individual has ruled for 30, 40 years, they must be removed from power,” Fayose firmly stated. He also refuted rumors of his resignation from the PDP.