PDP Governors Push Back Against Wike’s threats, Vowing ‘Fire in their States

Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have sharply criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for threatening to “set their states on fire” if they interfere in the affairs of the PDP in Rivers State.

The PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Governor Bala Mohammed, issued a statement on Tuesday, signed by its Director General, Dr. Emmanuel Agbo, in Abuja. The statement described Wike’s threats as “unbridled, irresponsible, and unacceptable.”

The forum expressed its alarm over Wike’s remarks, which have rapidly gained traction on social media. Despite Wike’s warnings, the governors affirmed their unwavering support for Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, vowing to ensure he receives all rights and privileges accorded to PDP governors.

The statement read in part, “The threats issued by Wike to ‘put fire’ in PDP-controlled states are unbridled, irresponsible, and utterly unacceptable, as they undermine efforts to foster peace, cohesion, collaboration, and mutual respect among party leaders and members.”

“It is regrettable that such comments are coming from someone who was once a respected member of this forum as a former governor.”

The forum reiterated its long-standing principle of mutual support, emphasizing that it stands by its governors collectively and individually, no matter the circumstances. The statement highlighted that Wike himself benefited from this tradition during his tenure as governor.

“Our position on the affairs of the PDP in Rivers State, as unanimously resolved at our 2024 third and fourth meetings in Enugu and Taraba States, is not subject to review by any individual, regardless of their status,” the forum added.

The governors stressed that their stance is neither personal nor aimed at undermining any stakeholder in the party. Instead, it reflects their commitment to maintaining order and eliminating conflicting loyalties, which have historically caused distractions in Rivers State governance.

“We are irrevocably committed to working with the National Working Committee (NWC) of our great party to ensure that Governor Fubara of Rivers State is accorded all the privileges he is entitled to as a governor elected on our platform, both at the state and national levels.”

The statement further emphasized the PDP’s dedication to unity and collective progress, urging all party members, including Wike, to prioritize the party’s common goals over personal grievances.

“The forum urges the National Working Committee to use all available platforms, both official and unofficial, to find an amicable solution to the crisis in the Rivers State chapter. It is imperative for the warring parties to embrace dialogue and refrain from incendiary rhetoric that could inflame passions among their followers.”

The governors underscored the importance of continuous dialogue and reconciliation, noting that the PDP has established mechanisms for addressing grievances, including recently constituted disciplinary and reconciliation committees.

“Wike needs to engage constructively with these processes, as dialogue and reconciliation are the pathways to resolving differences and strengthening the party.”

Lastly, the forum called on national security agencies to take note of Wike’s threats to incite violence, reminding him that no one is above the law.