PDP Not Under Wike’s Control—Jacob Mark Tells Peter Obi to Ignore FCT Minister’s Influence

A former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Jacob Mark, has downplayed the influence of Nyesom Wike in the PDP, insisting that the former Rivers State governor poses no threat to Peter Obi’s potential return to the party. In an interview with Arise News, Mark stated categorically that Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government, no longer holds sway in the PDP, nor does he actively participate in the party’s affairs.

Mark’s remarks came amid growing speculation surrounding efforts to woo Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, back into the PDP fold ahead of the 2027 general elections. When asked about Wike’s possible involvement in the discussions and his rumored grip on the PDP’s decision-making structures, Mark dismissed such narratives as baseless and misleading.

“Wike is not a member of the PDP,” Mark asserted. “For more than a year now, he hasn’t attended a single PDP meeting. So when I hear people saying he’s in control, I get worried—it shows we’re lazy with facts.”

Mark, speaking from Kaduna, where he attended a PDP state caucus meeting in preparation for upcoming bye-elections, emphasized that the party’s operations in the north are free from any influence Wike may be perceived to wield from Abuja. According to him, PDP leaders in the North are focused on rebuilding the party’s grassroots strength without interference from individuals no longer present in internal structures.

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“Wike Has No Political Weight in Northern PDP”

Highlighting Wike’s absence from party activities, Mark questioned how someone who no longer contributes to PDP affairs can be viewed as its puppet master.

“In Kaduna, Wike has zero influence. Go to Plateau, Benue, or any other northern state—nobody knows Wike politically. He doesn’t control anything,” he said. “People assume he has influence just because he has friends on the National Working Committee or because certain individuals in Abuja align with him. That’s not control; that’s exaggeration.”

The former legal adviser also criticized Wike for allegedly supporting candidates from other parties during the last election cycle, arguing that such actions disqualify him from being regarded as a loyal PDP member.

Mark further argued that the party has entered a new era of restructuring and rejuvenation, crediting the departure of key figures—including Wike—for creating space for new leadership to emerge.

“We’re grateful some people left. Their exit allowed growth. The PDP was stagnated because a few individuals refused to make way. Now, we’re seeing a resurgence, and Nigerians will soon witness a more robust opposition party,” he noted.

Peter Obi’s Return: An Internal Affair, Not Wike’s Call

Regarding Peter Obi’s rumored return, Mark said it was a strategic decision for the PDP and not subject to approval or disapproval by Wike or any other individual operating outside the party’s core machinery.

“If Peter Obi decides to return, he should deal with real PDP structures and not worry about distractions. The PDP is being rebuilt by its true members and founders, and we’re looking forward, not backward,” he said.

Mark concluded by emphasizing the need for fresh political actors in the party, criticizing the recycling of old figures who refuse to retire or evolve. He advocated for generational transition within the PDP, encouraging younger and more committed members to take the lead.

“Some people still wear the jersey when they should be coaching from the sidelines. The political arena needs a reset, and PDP is doing just that.”

As 2027 approaches, the PDP appears focused on reviving its grassroots presence and repositioning itself as a true opposition force—without leaning on controversial political figures whose loyalties are in question. For Obi, the path back to PDP, if pursued, may depend more on the strength of this new structure than the noise from Abuja.