The Senior Special Assistant to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Lere Olayinka, has hit back at Wike’s recent expulsion from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
He called the move “Dirty December in November,” saying it started early — in Ibadan — and should be treated as a boozy social gathering, not a serious political decision.
Olayinka argued that the gathering in Ibadan was more party than politics. “After indulging in drinks, they were free to say anything,” he said, suggesting that their statements have little weight.
Wike, along with ex-Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose and factional PDP chairman Samuel Anyanwu, was expelled over alleged anti-party activities.
Their expulsion was backed unanimously at the PDP National Convention in Ibadan.
The motion was moved by Chief Bode George and seconded by Governor Bala Mohammed.
But the move comes amid fierce legal challenges. A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued judgment suspending the convention, citing violations of the party’s own constitution, the 1999 Constitution, and the Electoral Act.
Wike’s camp insists that any convention held now is a “nullity.”
In a related development, the PDP’s National Working Committee suspended Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade, Okechukwu Osuoha, and Umaru Bature over alleged anti-party conduct.
The Wike-led faction, however, says it has filed an appeal and insists it will not recognize any Ibadan gathering while the court process is ongoing.
PDP