Defection of 27 Lawmakers Signals Wike’s Political Quandary, Says Former nPDP Spokesperson

Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former National Publicity Secretary of the now-defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), has voiced concerns over the defection of 27 lawmakers aligned with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Eze contends that this mass defection underscores Wike’s inclination towards political peril.

In a statement released to the media, Eze accused the lawmakers of being mere pawns in the state legislature, executing Wike’s directives without regard for the aspirations of their constituents.

He suggested that Wike’s leadership style could lead to their eventual loss of seats, citing Section 109 of the constitution.

Calls are now echoing from various quarters, including legal experts and civil society groups, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections to fill the vacant seats of the 27 lawmakers.

Eze predicted that none of them would successfully return to the Assembly in such an event.

Eze welcomed the lawmakers to what he described as the “cancerous” political party, referencing Wike’s previous characterization of the APC.

He criticized Wike’s influence, noting that those who contributed to building the APC would not stand idly by while Wike and his allies attempted to dismantle the party.

Given the situation in the state, Eze urged the National Assembly to promptly assume the functions of the state legislature, emphasizing the need to avoid economic and developmental setbacks, especially with the impending presentation and passage of the 2024 budget.

He directed Governor Siminalayi Fubara to abandon a passive approach, asserting that it is time to confront Wike decisively.

Eze advised the Governor to dissolve the Local Government Area (LGA) councils and the state executive council for the greater good of the state and his administration, urging swift action before missing the opportune moment.