PDP NWC recognises Wike as party leader in Rivers, snubs Fubara, other governors

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has endorsed the Rivers State congresses, solidifying the leadership position of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike in the state.

The NWC, led by acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, during a meeting at the party’s national headquarters, Wadata Plaza, in Abuja on Thursday, threw its weight behind the Rivers State congresses, backing Wike’s position.

The decision outmaneuvered Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other governors who opposed the congresses.

At the meeting, the NWC also postponed the National Executive Committee meeting, originally set for September 26, to October 24.

Before the fresh decision was taken, tension rose within the party, particularly between Wike and the PDP Governors Forum.

Speaking in confidence, a top member of PDP NWC disclosed that with the decision of the committee, Wike has defeated those plotting against him.

The source said, “They have achieved their aim. Wike has again defeated the PDP governors as the NWC approved the Rivers and other states’ congresses. There was nothing a few NWC members who were against it could do other than allow them to have their way. As it stands, only the NEC can overturn it to suit the governors’ demands.

“The Rivers State Congresses and those of other states were approved by the NWC. A few states where issues were identified were stepped down. For example, in Kogi, the Chairman and Deputy were not approved due to anomalies.

“Only the NEC can overturn the NWC’s decision on Rivers and other states. However, the NEC meeting, originally slated for September 26, has been postponed to October 24, which may not hold on that date. As it stands, Wike has defeated the Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed-led PDP Governors Forum.”