Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Emmanuel Ogidi has criticized Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, accusing him of working against the interests of the opposition party,Peak Newspaper reports.
Ogidi made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television on Thursday, October 22, 2026, where he expressed confidence in the PDP’s ability to survive its internal challenges despite what he described as efforts to destroy the party.
Speaking during the interview, the PDP chieftain took aim at Wike over his alleged role in the party’s ongoing difficulties. According to Ogidi, the FCT minister has pursued actions that he believes are intended to weaken the PDP and undermine its position as one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties.
Ogidi, however, insisted that the party remains deeply rooted in Nigeria’s political landscape and cannot easily be dismantled, regardless of the challenges it faces.
He used the image of an iroko tree, a large and durable tree widely associated with strength and longevity, to describe the PDP’s resilience and enduring political significance.
In his words, “Wike has gone all out to destroy the PDP but you see, he has forgotten that the PDP is an iroko tree.” The statement reflects Ogidi’s determination to defend the party against what he considers attempts to weaken its structure and influence.
His comparison of the PDP to an iroko tree suggests that, despite internal disagreements, political pressure and leadership disputes, the party possesses a foundation strong enough to withstand difficult periods.
Wike, who previously served as governor of Rivers State before becoming FCT minister, has remained a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political affairs. His relationship with the PDP has been a subject of considerable political debate, particularly amid disagreements over the party’s leadership, direction and internal affairs.
