ABUJA, NIGERIA — Nyesom Wike, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has criticized a rival faction of the party, questioning their respect for court rulings and challenging senior party member Bode George on his understanding of Supreme Court decisions.
Speaking during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of his faction, Wike accused the opposing group of ignoring legal directives while proceeding with a convention that he said was not recognized by the national electoral body.
In a video shared by SYMFONI TV, Wike emphasized that political actions cannot be based solely on slogans or emotional appeals.
He argued that some members of the other PDP faction claim party matters are internal issues and beyond judicial scrutiny. Wike said this is a misconception.
“Only the courts can truly explain their judgments, not politicians repeating statements that suit their interests,” Wike said.
“If anyone believes the Supreme Court supports their actions, they should present the actual judgment instead of relying on propaganda.”
His remarks highlighted the importance of respecting legal decisions in political affairs and avoiding manipulation of court rulings for personal or factional gain.
Wike then turned his criticism toward Bode George, a senior PDP figure known for frequently referencing court rulings.
Wike suggested that George often speaks about Supreme Court decisions without fully understanding them.
“People like Bode George, no more job, nothing. Every day, you’ll see the old man say, ‘Supreme Court said…’ Ask him whether he has read any Supreme Court judgment one day. Even the judgment that freed him, has he read it? He has not,” Wike said, mocking George’s habit of quoting the court in political discussions.
The minister’s comments appear to be a pushback against what he sees as the misuse of judicial decisions for political advantage by members of the rival PDP faction.
Wike stressed that for the PDP to maintain its credibility, members must respect court rulings and refrain from acting unilaterally or ignoring legal processes.
He warned that relying on selective interpretation of court decisions undermines the rule of law and the integrity of the party.
The NEC meeting also addressed broader concerns about internal party governance, highlighting the need for cohesion and adherence to legal procedures in resolving disputes.
Wike’s remarks underscore the tension between the factions and the ongoing debates about leadership, conventions, and party conduct in Nigeria’s main opposition party.
The segment criticizing Bode George can be viewed in the video between 10:38 and 11:16, where Wike challenges George’s knowledge of the Supreme Court’s past rulings and questions his credibility on legal matters.
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