Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki, the Director of Research, Strategy, and Documentation for Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 Presidential Campaign, has voiced strong concerns regarding the role of Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers state and current FCT Minister, within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Obaseki has described Wike as the “biggest problem” facing the party and has called for his removal.

Obaseki’s criticisms stem from a series of actions taken by Wike, including his call for the suspension or expulsion of the former Vice President and presidential hopeful, Atiku Abubakar, from the PDP. Obaseki has also cited Wike’s numerous public criticisms of the party and his alleged acts of betrayal as reasons for his call for Wike’s removal.

According to Obaseki, Wike’s ambitions to secure the PDP’s presidential nomination have contributed to internal crises within the party. He asserted that Wike had played a role in many of these conflicts, starting with his support for Uche Secondus as the party’s chairman and culminating in his defeat at the PDP presidential primaries.

Regarding the calls for Atiku’s removal from the party, Obaseki stated, “The person who deserves to be expelled from the party is the man who is calling for the expulsion of others from the party.” He accused Wike of forming a faction within the party known as the G-5, campaigning against the party’s constitution and structures, and being a factor in the defections of several prominent party members.

Obaseki also criticized Wike for his presidential aspirations, suggesting that his actions were self-serving and detrimental to party unity. He emphasized that Wike’s proximity to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s hometown and his desire to run for the presidency in the same region raised questions about his motivations.

In conclusion, Obaseki warned that Wike’s actions were causing division within the PDP and that he and his campaign team were prepared to challenge Wike’s influence. He stated, “He has unleashed the dogs of war, and we will not sit back and watch him ride roughshod over the party and majority of Nigerians like he did for eight years over the humility of Rivers people. That can no longer suffice.”

Obaseki’s remarks reflect the growing tensions and power struggles within the PDP as the 2023 presidential election approaches. Wike’s role and influence within the party continue to be subjects of debate and controversy.