Wike Explains to Bode George How He Built PDP Into a National Political Force

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has fired back at elder statesman and PDP Board of Trustees member, Chief Bode George, asserting that his political efforts were instrumental in making the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) a dominant force both in Rivers State and at the national level.

Wike made these bold claims during his monthly live media chat in Abuja on Monday, June 2, while responding to criticism from Chief Bode George regarding the recent sealing of the PDP National Secretariat over unpaid ground rent.

Chief George had described the action as “politically insensitive,” expressing disappointment that a party which once held sway over national affairs would allow its headquarters to be locked up over rent issues. However, Wike was quick to refute the insinuations and laid the blame on legal complications surrounding the ownership of the property.

“I cannot pay because, first of all, it is not in my name. They cannot pay because the property is not in their name,” Wike clarified.

In a sharp and personal rebuke, Wike questioned Chief George’s political relevance, especially in Lagos State, where the PDP has consistently struggled to gain electoral ground.

“If an elderly man has no job, he should sit at home and read his newspapers,” Wike quipped.

He acknowledged that the PDP gave him national visibility, but stressed that personal efforts — not party backing — determine political success.

“Bode George said PDP made me by giving me a national profile, and I agree. But the party does not make you; you are the one who makes the party win elections.”

Taking direct aim at George’s leadership in Lagos, Wike continued:

“Ask Bode George — who has PDP made popular in Lagos since 1999? You are talking to someone who has laboured and campaigned for the PDP to become a major political force at both state and national levels.”

He also alluded to the PDP’s internal struggles during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan and credited himself for keeping the party afloat in key strategic moments, especially in the South-South.

The latest war of words adds to the internal tensions within the PDP, a party still grappling with post-election divisions, legacy rivalries, and questions over its political direction heading into future elections.

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