2027: Wike Charges PDP Aspirants to Brace for Tough Political Battle, Says Power Must Be Earned
By Ozioma Okah Madison
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
ABUJA, Nigeria — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has urged candidates seeking elective offices on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2027 general elections to prepare for the demanding task of winning political power through hard work, resilience, and strategic engagement.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during the 109th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP held in Abuja, where he emphasized that political power is not freely handed over but must be legitimately won through dedication and determination.
According to the former Rivers State governor, aspiring candidates must be willing to confront challenges and remain steadfast in pursuing electoral success.
“Power is not given; it is taken. Nobody is ready to hand over power to you. You have to struggle for it and not be afraid,” Wike stated.
He encouraged party members to move beyond complaints about political obstacles and instead develop the courage and commitment required to secure electoral victories.
Reflecting on his political career, Wike recounted several hurdles he encountered, including becoming governor while an incumbent administration belonged to a different political party. He also referenced his experience during a local government chairmanship election that was ultimately decided by the Supreme Court.
The minister noted that political challenges should be viewed as opportunities for growth and eventual success rather than reasons for discouragement.
“When I don’t see challenges, I know that something is wrong. But when I see challenges, I know success is near,” he said.
Wike further advised governorship aspirants and other party candidates to abandon what he described as a culture of entitlement, stressing that electoral success requires sustained effort and grassroots engagement.
He reminded PDP members that the party is currently operating from the opposition and must therefore work collectively to rebuild its structures and regain public confidence ahead of the 2027 elections.
The FCT Minister also cautioned against the politicization of religion, urging party stakeholders to focus on policies, performance, and delivering value to Nigerians.
“Everybody should go home and bring something to the table in 2027. Every NEC member must contribute. Politics is about results, not excuses,” he said.
Addressing ongoing internal disputes within the PDP, Wike maintained that questions of legitimacy would ultimately be determined through the processes recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly regarding access to the commission’s candidate nomination portal.
He also encouraged party leaders and members not to be deterred by political pressure, intimidation, or harassment, insisting that perseverance remains essential in political leadership.
“Use me as an example. There is nothing I have not seen. I have seen everything, including intimidation,” he added.
Wike's remarks come as political parties begin early strategic preparations for the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders across the country positioning themselves for what is expected to be another highly competitive electoral cycle.
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