Rita Odafe
Dispute Over PDP’s Zoning Policies
Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has rejected the assertion made by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, that individuals like Governor Bala Mohammed contributed to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) zoning its 2023 presidential ticket to the North, away from its established zoning policy.
Eze argued that Wike’s remarks are misleading and that it was actually Wike’s actions that led the PDP to open its primaries rather than any influence from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or Governor Bala Mohammed.
He pointed out that Wike’s recent statements seem to twist the truth. In a recent interview, Wike claimed, “We have always done it North and South,” emphasizing the need to respect an understood agreement within the party. Eze contends that Wike conveniently ignored the actual circumstances regarding the PDP’s zoning policy.
Moreover, Eze stated that Wike’s ambition for the PDP presidential ticket played a significant role in undermining the party’s zoning framework during 2022.
He continued, “It’s unfortunate that some supporters of Wike fail to recognize the truth due to the financial benefits they receive from him.”
Eze clarified that Atiku Abubakar was not opposed to zoning the presidency to the South; his proposal specifically suggested that it should be directed towards the South-East, which triggered Wike’s anxiety, given the presence of Peter Obi within the party.
Wike’s anxiety led him to criticize Obi as he attempted to secure his position ahead of the primary elections. Eze described Wike’s ambitious efforts to rally support through a group known as G-5, arguing that their opposition to Atiku’s proposal ultimately led to an open contest for the presidency.
Eze accused Wike of proclaiming that the presidential slot was destined for him, revealing a disconnect from the political realities he faced during the primaries.
After his unsuccessful bid for the PDP presidential nomination and failing to secure the vice-presidential position, Wike’s actions, according to Eze, contributed to the party’s loss in the 2023 elections.
Eze warned that Wike’s alliance with President Bola Tinubu is likely to harm the PDP’s reputation, predicting that their political partnership will ultimately deteriorate due to Wike’s history of betrayal and authoritarian behavior.
He concluded by advising the PDP to abandon any hopes of reconciling with Wike, suggesting that his ties with the APC are to the detriment of the PDP. Eze urged that if Wike truly stands by his words, he should resign from the APC government to affirm his relevance within the party dynamics.
