“We’ll Take Back Our Mandate” — Wike Fires Warning to Defecting PDP Governors

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong warning to governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who have left the party.

Wike made the remarks while addressing party delegates at the 2026 PDP National Convention in Abuja.  

The outspoken minister spoke firmly about loyalty to the party and the consequences of defection.

In his words, “All of you who took our mandate, we will take it back.”

The former Rivers State governor said the PDP would not sit back and watch elected officials abandon the platform that brought them to power.

He insisted that the party’s structure and supporters remain strong enough to challenge any governor who defects.

He continued, “Who took our mandate? We will take it back. Then the fear you hold. Then the fear you hold. Because you cannot see ordinary small crises. They’ve run away. Assuming you make one of them to be president of the country, and external aggression comes, they will also run away.”

Wike criticised what he described as a lack of courage among some political leaders. According to him, those who cannot withstand internal party disagreements cannot be trusted with higher national responsibilities.

His comments come amid growing tension within the PDP. In recent months, the party has been dealing with internal divisions, leadership disputes, and speculations about possible defections by key members.

Wike, a prominent figure in the party, has remained vocal about the need for discipline and unity. He warned that any attempt to weaken the PDP through defection would be resisted politically.

He also used the opportunity to commend party delegates for their commitment, saying their role remains vital in shaping the future of the PDP.

“Delegates, I congratulate you for this convention. May God bless all of you. Thank you and God bless you.”