The People's Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a strong stance against Minister Nyesom Wike's recent comments regarding former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George. In a statement, the Lagos PDP spokesperson, Dr. Christopher Odianarewo, delivered a scathing critique, highlighting the personal and political motivations behind Wike's remarks.
Odianarewo begins by addressing Wike's claim that he had no regrets about blocking George's bid for the PDP national chairmanship. He argues that this statement reveals Wike's ongoing obsession with George, suggesting that the Minister is still preoccupied with an old political disagreement. Odianarewo emphasizes that George's decision to step down from his ambition was a mature and selfless act, demonstrating his commitment to party unity and stability.
The Lagos PDP spokesperson then delves into the historical context, pointing out that George's aspirations were legitimate and in line with the PDP constitution. He questions Wike's authority to determine the fate of a party member's aspirations, suggesting that such actions undermine democratic principles. Odianarewo also highlights the irony of Wike's personal visit to George's residence, given his current portrayal of George as politically irrelevant.
One of the key arguments presented is the attempt to rewrite Lagos PDP's electoral history. Odianarewo refutes Wike's claim that George's political relevance is solely determined by the number of votes in his polling unit. He emphasizes that leadership and political history are broader concepts, and George's contributions to the PDP and Lagos politics cannot be reduced to such a narrow standard. Odianarewo also questions Wike's moral authority to lecture Lagosians about their political choices, given his own achievements in the state.
The statement further addresses Wike's reference to Mr. Deji Doherty, dismissing it as a mere attempt to create a political narrative. Odianarewo highlights the sophistication of Lagosians, who can discern genuine political structures from mere television theatrics. He also criticizes Wike's tendency to become loud only when political patronage is involved.
In conclusion, Odianarewo advises Wike to focus on his responsibilities as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and to leave Lagos's political affairs alone. He emphasizes that Lagos has its own history, structures, and destiny, and that Wike's attempts to impose his political mentality from Rivers State will not succeed. The statement concludes by reiterating that Lagos is not Rivers, and that the PDP in Lagos will not be intimidated by Wike's threats and attempts to rewrite history.
