PDP Governors Commended for Backing Governor Fubara Amidst Wike Tensions

Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been commended for their bold stance in the ongoing political discord between Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Their support for Governor Fubara has been seen as a validation of Senator Adolphus Wabara, the Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), and his efforts to mediate in the crisis.

Emeka-Yellow Ikpegbu, the National Coordinator of PDP Frontiers for Change and Progress, lauded the PDP governors for their recent declaration of support for Governor Fubara.

He noted that their united front demonstrates a courageous stand against what he described as Wike’s alleged attempts at political dominance and godfatherism within the party.

According to Ikpegbu, this collective backing sends a strong message about the importance of supporting elected leaders and maintaining party discipline.

Speaking in Umuahia, Ikpegbu reiterated that the stance taken by the PDP governors aligns with the principles and positions of the PDP Board of Trustees, led by Senator Wabara.

He highlighted that the BoT members had recently visited Governor Fubara in Port Harcourt, expressing similar support and solidarity.

Ikpegbu stressed that the governors’ declaration in Jalingo, Taraba State, under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed, underscored their commitment to equity and justice, recognising Fubara as the rightful leader of the PDP in Rivers State in accordance with the party’s constitution.

“The same position taken by the PDP governors in Jalingo mirrors what Senator Wabara and other BoT members conveyed in Port Harcourt,” Ikpegbu stated. “This unity of purpose is essential for the party’s cohesion and integrity.”

Ikpegbu warned against the resurgence of impunity within the PDP, recalling how such behaviour had previously undermined the party’s stability and electoral success.

He argued that if the PDP is to reclaim political dominance in Nigeria, it must avoid past mistakes and ensure that respect for its democratic values remains paramount.

He cautioned against any attempts by individuals within the party to impose personal interests over collective decisions, emphasising that the PDP’s strength lies in its adherence to democratic principles.

He further called on Nyesom Wike to respect the autonomy of Governor Fubara and allow him to govern without interference. “Wike should focus on his responsibilities as the Minister of the FCT and desist from meddling in the affairs of Governor Fubara, Senator Wabara, and the PDP,” Ikpegbu urged.

This pointed remark underscores the growing concern within the party about the potential for internal conflict to derail its efforts to rebuild and strengthen its position ahead of future elections.

Ikpegbu’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among PDP members who believe that the party must maintain unity and discipline to achieve its goals.

He stressed that the actions of the PDP governors serve as an important reminder that leadership within the party should be based on merit and the will of its members, not on the influence of powerful individuals.

By standing behind Governor Fubara, the governors have set a precedent for resisting undue influence and upholding the principles that have historically defined the PDP.

This recent show of solidarity is seen as a critical step towards reinforcing the authority of elected leaders within the PDP and ensuring that internal party dynamics do not overshadow the broader objective of governance and service to the people.

It also highlights the ongoing challenges that political parties in Nigeria face in balancing internal interests with the need for a unified and coherent leadership structure.

As the PDP looks to the future, the support extended to Governor Fubara may serve as a catalyst for further consolidation of the party’s leadership in Rivers State and beyond.

The actions of the PDP governors and the BoT members could inspire greater confidence among party members and supporters, demonstrating that the PDP is committed to upholding the democratic values that are essential for its success.

This episode may also serve as a warning to those within the party who seek to leverage personal power at the expense of collective unity, reminding them that the strength of the PDP lies in its commitment to fairness, justice, and respect for its elected leaders.