The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said political parties cannot lay claim to opposition status without proving their strength through electoral victories.
Wike made the remark on Friday, April 17, during a visit to the Peoples Democratic Party national secretariat, Wadata House, in Abuja, where he met with members of the party’s new National Working Committee.
Addressing party leaders, he stressed that credibility in opposition politics is determined at the ballot box rather than through rhetoric or alliances.
“You cannot become an opposition party without winning an election. Those who say they are leading the opposition have not contested any election successfully,” he said.
He maintained that electoral performance remains the most reliable indicator of political relevance in a democratic system.
During the visit, Wike also reaffirmed his loyalty to the party’s leadership, describing his presence as a show of solidarity as the PDP works through internal difficulties.
“My coming here is to reassure you of my support. I have come to pledge my loyalty to the National Working Committee,” he said.
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He acknowledged that the party had recently faced internal divisions but expressed optimism that stability was gradually being restored.
“Yes, we have crisis, and we have almost come out of it. It will require hard work and sacrifice to move the party forward,” he said.
Wike urged the leadership to prioritise reconciliation efforts, particularly by reaching out to aggrieved members who may be willing to return.
“Reach out to them. Most are concerned about opportunities, including tickets. You know what to do,” he advised.
He further encouraged the party to remain focused despite ongoing political and legal disputes, expressing confidence in its eventual success.
“We have defeated them at the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal. The same God will see us through. Stay focused and work as a team,” he added.
The PDP National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, in his response, said the new leadership was committed to repositioning the party and rebuilding public confidence ahead of future elections.