Former Anambra Governor Nwobodo recognises Wike’s crucial role in PDP
….urges support for party’s survival
Elder statesman and Governor of the old Anambra State (1979 – 1983), Jim Nwobodo, one of the founding fathers and the oldest member of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), on Friday highlighted the significant influence of Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike within the party, noting that his support and determination are vital for the party’s unity and revival.
Speaking at the inauguration of its new Board of Trustees (BoT), at the LifeCamp official resident of the Minister of FCT, Nyesome Wike, he issued a passionate call for reconciliation and revitalization of the party.
Speaking on Friday at the inauguration of its new Board of Trustees (BoT), at the LifeCamp official resident of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesome Wike, he acknowledged key party figures, including the Acting National Chairman, Wike, whom he described as the Performing Minister of the FCT the National Secretary, members of the Board of Trustees, and the wider PDP family, he emphasised that PDP is more than just a political organisation; it is a family where every member should feel a strong sense of belonging.
Nwobodo called on Wike to play an active role in the ongoing efforts to reconcile and rebuild the PDP, emphasising that the minister has proven that leadership and commitment can make a critical difference.
He urged the minister to leverage his influence to aid in reaching out to aggrieved members and encouraging their return to the party fold.
Highlighting the historical significance of the party, Nwobodo described PDP as “the beacon of democracy in Nigeria,” likening it to the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa in terms of its role and legacy. He urged the leadership to proactively reach out to aggrieved members who remain loyal to the party’s constitution and ideology, encouraging their return to the party fold.
According to him, many politicians in other Nigerian parties once had roots in PDP, which he termed “the mother party” and credited with laying the foundation of democracy in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.
A key part of his message was an appeal for the establishment of a robust reconciliation committee to actively engage and welcome back members who have strayed but are willing to rejoin the PDP. Nwobodo revealed that some of these potential returnees had directly contacted him and were awaiting outreach from party leaders. He called on the leadership to display magnanimity and open arms to these members to rebuild the party to its original strength and unity.
Reflecting on his recent visit to Abuja, Nwobodo remarked on the city’s transformation over the past two years, noting how unrecognizable it has become compared to when he last lived there. Drawing a parallel, he stated that similar committed efforts devoted to the party could restore PDP as the dominant political force once more. Although acknowledging the challenges, he reinforced that meaningful achievements require perseverance and determination.
The elders statesman concluded by wishing the PDP leadership and members success in their mission to restore the party’s former glory, ensuring that the sacrifices and labors of the founding fathers—many of whom have passed on—will not be in vain.
