The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to calls by Chief Edwin Clark, leader of the Southern and Middle Belt Forum, for an investigation into his conduct and potential expulsion from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike stated he would not entertain Clark’s demands, emphasising that Clark is not a member of the PDP.
Speaking during a media briefing on Wednesday to mark his first year in office, Wike addressed the recent letter from Clark to PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum. In his letter, Clark requested the formation of a probe panel to investigate Wike and impose sanctions if necessary, according to the party’s constitution.
Wike dismissed Clark’s request, stating, “I don’t know the party that Chief Clark belongs to. Frankly speaking, since I entered the PDP, I have never seen him at any PDP meeting. I do not like to react to elder statesmen like that. But let me tell you the history so that people will know. In 2014, when I came out to run, Edwin Clark said it was the turn of the Ijaws and that nothing would make me Governor. I said, ‘Well, it is my right to run, and if I fail, I come back.’ But to the glory of God, I ran and won.”
He continued, “Since then, Edwin Clark has written me letters, but I have refused to respond. I was not a bad person when I supported the Ijaw man to be Governor; I have become a bad person simply because I chose to stay silent on certain issues.”
Wike further commented on the investigation call, saying, “There is nothing Chief Edwin Clark has not said, but I will not reply to anything. If there is anybody who has contributed to the growth of PDP as far as today, it is me. So, when I read that he said they should investigate me, investigate me for what? He was one of those advocating for a Southern presidency, and I supported that cause. So, what is the crime I have committed that I also believe in?”
Wike’s remarks underline his refusal to engage with Clark’s demands and his stance on his contributions to the PDP and the broader political landscape.
