Trouble for Wike as Edo PDP members call for his suspension amid party crisis

Members of the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are urging the suspension of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, following the recent suspension of Chief Dan Orbih, the PDP’s National Vice Chairman (South-South), Saturday PUNCH reported.

This internal discord within the party has been escalating since the governorship primary election on February 22, 2024, which saw Asue Ighodalo emerge as the candidate. Dissatisfied members subsequently took legal action against the party.

Last week, Justice Inyang Ekwo nullified the primary election in case FHC/ABJ/CS/165/2024, citing the exclusion of 378 delegates. In response, the PDP appealed this ruling on Wednesday.

The PDP’s National Working Committee suspended Orbih, accusing him of undermining the party’s efforts in Edo State. Orbih is closely associated with Wike, who is now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

An anonymous member of the party’s NWC, who is not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, accused Wike of orchestrating the party’s troubles in Edo State.

“We are deeply concerned, and the party leadership shares this concern, that some members are attempting to sabotage the party’s efforts in Edo State,” the source said. “Orbih and the former Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, are not acting alone. They are working in allegiance with Nyesom Wike. The FCT Minister is doing everything possible to undermine the Governor of Edo, Godwin Obaseki, and pave the way for the APC to take control.”

He continued, “Similar to the situation in Rivers State, the PDP leadership is aware that Wike is the one funding and fueling all the crises within the party in Edo State. It is high time the party took a firm stand on this issue and suspends Wike as well.”

Timothy Osadolor, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, reiterated the party leadership’s determination in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, stating that they remain committed to ensuring the success of the PDP’s candidate despite these internal conflicts.