On Tuesday, Dan Ulasi, a former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, refuted claims that the party had summoned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to appear before its disciplinary committee. The assertion came amidst confusion over Wike’s role and actions following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
Earlier reports suggested that Ibrahim Abdullahi, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of PDP, had announced Wike’s summons concerning alleged anti-party activities. These reports stemmed from Wike’s notable support for President Tinubu during the 2023 elections, despite his prior allegiance to the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
Wike’s appointment as Minister of FCT and refusal to step down as PDP’s Rivers State leader have intensified tensions within the party, particularly with Governor Sim Fubara.
Addressing these issues, Ulasi stated, “PDP is grappling with serious challenges, but the astute National Working Committee, under the leadership of Damagum, is working diligently to reorient the party after consecutive presidential election losses.”
Ulasi clarified that no summons had been issued to Wike, explaining, “Recently, two committees were established: the disciplinary committee and the reconciliatory committee. I would be surprised if the disciplinary committee had invited him, as the reconciliatory committee must first address the issues. If any concerns arise, they would be referred to the National Working Committee (NWC).”
He continued, “During my recent visit to Abuja, I met with the national chairman, national secretary, national organizing secretary, and Atiku to discuss facilitating easier reconciliation within the party. The procedural approach dictates that no one should face the disciplinary committee without first undergoing the reconciliation process.”
Ulasi emphasized that the disciplinary committee’s role would only come into play if reconciliation efforts failed. “Only if reconciliation fails would the NWC escalate the matter to the disciplinary committee,” he added, outlining the party’s procedural standards.
