Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and National Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nyesom Wike, has urged party members to prepare for a fierce political contest ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that political power is never handed over but must be won through determination and struggle.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while addressing the 109th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP in Abuja. He encouraged the party’s candidates not to be discouraged by arrests, court cases, or political intimidation, insisting that victory often emerges from adversity.
“Nobody gives power. Power is taken. You must fight for it to take it. Nobody is ready to hand over power to you. You have to struggle and work for it. You must not be afraid,” Wike said.
The former Rivers State governor challenged party members to focus on delivering electoral victories rather than offering excuses, emphasizing the importance of grassroots mobilisation and tangible political contributions.
“Everyone should return home and bring something to the table in 2027. Whether it is a House of Representatives seat or a State Assembly seat, every contribution matters. This is not a place for empty hands,” he stated.
Wike urged PDP members to remain steadfast in the face of challenges, noting that political struggles test commitment, resilience, and loyalty to a cause.
Reflecting on the party’s readiness for the elections, he expressed confidence in the PDP’s preparations and dismissed concerns over legal disputes.
“As far as I am concerned, June 26 is the date political parties will receive access codes to upload election results. We are ready to go. Nobody is afraid of the courts; courts are meant for human beings, not ghosts,” he said.
Despite the PDP’s current internal challenges, Wike maintained that the party would emerge stronger and continue to play a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“After the 2027 elections, we will return here to thank God for preserving our party. We may not be in a position to win everything, but a strong opposition remains relevant and can shape the nation’s future,” he added.
Earlier, PDP National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed called on party members to unite as preparations for future electoral contests intensify.
He commended party leaders, state chairmen, and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for successfully conducting recent primaries and maintaining party structures despite prevailing challenges.
Also speaking, Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, appealed for reconciliation and unity among party members following the primaries.
“The primaries are over and the contest has ended. Now is the time for unity, reconciliation, and collective action. There should be no victors and no vanquished,” Ohuabunwa said.
He urged party leaders to intensify efforts at membership mobilisation and voter registration, stressing that the PDP’s future success would depend largely on its ability to reconcile aggrieved members, expand its support base, and effectively mobilise voters nationwide.
“Our strength lies in our unity. When we work together, victory becomes achievable. When we are divided, our collective resolve is weakened,” he said.
