Wike Has No Real Grip on PDP, Can’t Prevent Peter Obi’s Return or Influence Northern Party Structures, Says Jacob Mark

 

The perception that Nyesom Wike wields control over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a myth with no factual foundation, according to a recent statement by Jacob Mark, former National Legal Adviser of the party. Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Mark emphasized that Wike's role in the PDP has become irrelevant, particularly in the northern states, and that his presence or absence has no bearing on the party's future or its potential presidential hopefuls, such as Peter Obi.

Mark’s comments were a direct response to the growing narrative that Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory serving in an APC-led administration, still holds significant sway over PDP affairs. According to Mark, this belief is not only flawed but also dangerous, as it undermines the efforts of committed party members who have been working diligently to restructure and refocus the party from the grassroots up.

Asked whether Wike supports the possible return of Peter Obi to the PDP and whether his approval would be necessary for such a move, Mark made it clear that Obi does not need Wike’s blessing. He stressed that the former Rivers State governor has not participated in any meaningful PDP activities in over a year, rendering his influence practically nonexistent.

Mark challenged journalists, analysts, and party watchers to do more investigative work before concluding that Wike is running the PDP from the sidelines. “Wike is not in our meetings. He has not attended NEC or caucus sessions. As far as the PDP in the north is concerned, he is a stranger,” he stated.

The PDP chieftain was speaking from Kaduna, where party leaders were gathered for a caucus meeting focused on preparations for upcoming bye-elections. According to him, the entire structure of the PDP in the region operates independently of Abuja politics and without any input or interference from Wike.

He further argued that attributing PDP’s internal decisions or direction to Wike ignores the reality that the party is currently experiencing a renewal process. Several longstanding members who were previously roadblocks to growth have either exited or become inactive, giving room for younger and more progressive voices to emerge. Mark sees this transition as healthy and necessary for the party to present itself as a serious opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He also questioned Wike’s integrity as a party member. “He has boasted publicly about supporting candidates from other parties just to ensure PDP loses in those states. So, what kind of loyalty is that?” Mark asked. He said it’s no surprise that many PDP members across the country do not see Wike as one of them anymore.

The portrayal of Wike as a political heavyweight within PDP, Mark continued, is often fueled by his relationships within the National Working Committee or by some individuals who have, in his words, “sold their conscience” and now do his bidding for personal gain. However, Mark believes this does not reflect the reality on the ground in most PDP strongholds.

States like Kaduna, Plateau, and Benue, according to him, have little to no awareness of Wike’s influence, and the party structures there continue to function efficiently without him. He noted that the political rebirth the PDP is currently undergoing is not being driven from Abuja but from real grassroots work taking place in the states.

Reflecting on the broader party dynamics, Mark emphasized the need to retire political figures who have outlived their usefulness and are hindering the emergence of new leaders. He advocated for a fresh generation of PDP members who can revitalize the party’s message and appeal to Nigerians more effectively than the recycled politicians of the past.

He concluded by reiterating that Peter Obi, if he wishes to return to the PDP fold, has nothing to fear from Wike or any faction tied to him. The doors are open, and the path is being cleared for new beginnings.

Mark’s remarks serve as both a critique of overstated political influence and a call to action for the PDP to maintain its independence, embrace fresh leadership, and prepare effectively for the 2027 elections.