Wike’s Aide Dismisses PDP Expulsion of FCT Minister

Tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Saturday after Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, mocked the party’s decision to expel his boss and other pro-Wike members.

In an interview with The Guardian, Olayinka ridiculed the Ibadan meeting where the expulsion was announced, describing it as a “premature December party” rather than a serious political session.

“When people decide to start their own dirty December in November, one can’t help but ignore whatever comes out of their mouths,” he said, accusing party leaders of turning the gathering into a social event rather than a formal political engagement.

Olayinka suggested that the expulsions were more a result of overexcitement than legitimate party action. “They gathered in Ibadan to enjoy themselves and got intoxicated. They are free to say anything,” he added.

The PDP has been facing increasing internal hostilities, with factions loyal to Wike clashing with those aligned with acting National Chairman Umar Damagum over the party convention, disciplinary measures, and Board of Trustees’ recommendations.

The party, in a statement, defended the expulsions, saying the decision, ratified by an overwhelming majority of delegates, was aimed at restoring unity, discipline, and focus ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Expected to be affected alongside Wike are Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), former Governor Ayo Fayose, Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, and others.

Observers have also questioned the legitimacy of the Ibadan convention, pointing out the absence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following court orders restricting the event.