PDP clarifies Wike can not face punishment without petitions, evidence

The Democratic People’s Party (PDP) has clarified that the Federal Capital Minister, Nyesom Wike, cannot face disciplinary acts of alleged anti-party activities without formal petitions supported by evidence.

The representative of the party’s national legal advisor, Okechukwu Osuoha, made clarification in Abuja on Monday.

He noted that although the National Executive Committee (NEC) had formed a disciplinary committee, so far no members were approved because there were no official complaints.

The Committee, chaired by the Head of Elder State Elder Tom Ikimi with a former PDP Governor candidate in Ondo State, Eyitayo Jegede as Secretary, was formed to investigate violations and recommend sanctions if needed.

“People often ask me specifically about the Minister of FCT, Smesom Wike – Why don’t we discipline it?

“Why don’t we take action? I tell them: It’s not enough to just say someone has committed a violation,” Osuoha said.

Also Read: Cybersecurity Firm, Kaspersky Finds a Campaign to Steal New Credentials On Facebook

He explained that for the disciplinary process began, the formal petition must be submitted, and the applicant must be prepared to testify and present evidence when the defendant was called.

“When the petition is written and presented, the applicant must also be prepared to come and testify. If the person accused of being invited, you must come with your proof,” he added.

The call for Wike sanctions has increased in recent months. A 2023 presidential candidate, Dele Momodu, has urged PDP to uphold tighter discipline, while the Northeast Unity Forum also demands actions against the FCT Minister, which is described as “politicians who are selfish.” This group stressed that restoring discipline in the party is very important to regain their previous influence.

However, Osuoha suggested that the challenges faced by the PDP discipline system reflect a broader problem in the Nigerian legal and political framework.

“This is the same problem as our wider Nigeria system. This is not just about showing anomalies; the challenge is to follow them to conclusions,” he said.