A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Bode George, has alleged that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is influencing the selection of governorship candidates for both the All Progressives Congress and the PDP in Rivers State.
George described the alleged development as disturbing, warning that it could further destabilise the political landscape in Rivers State and deepen divisions within the PDP if not urgently addressed.
Speaking amid ongoing tensions within the party, the PDP stalwart expressed concern that interference in candidate selection processes undermines internal democracy and weakens party structures. He cautioned that allowing such practices to continue unchecked could erode public confidence in the political system.
“It is troubling that one individual is perceived to be playing roles across party lines in determining candidates,” George said, stressing that political parties must maintain independence and adhere to due process in their internal affairs.
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The allegation comes against the backdrop of a prolonged leadership crisis within the PDP, which George described as unprecedented in the party’s history. According to him, the lingering disputes and factional struggles have created uncertainty and weakened the party’s cohesion ahead of future elections.
He urged party leaders to take decisive steps to resolve internal disagreements and restore unity, warning that failure to do so could have far-reaching consequences for the PDP’s electoral prospects.
George also called for transparency and accountability in the conduct of party primaries, insisting that credible processes are essential for producing acceptable candidates and maintaining party integrity.
While Wike has yet to publicly respond to the allegations, political observers say the claims could further heighten tensions within both the PDP and the APC in Rivers State, where political alignments have remained fluid in recent months.
The development highlights growing concerns over cross-party influence and the integrity of candidate selection processes in Nigeria’s political system, particularly in key states with significant electoral weight like Rivers.
