Chief Dan Orbih, the National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has come to the defense of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, clarifying that his involvement in President Bola Tinubu's administration is a matter of national service, not an alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday, Orbih explained that Wike's decision to accept the appointment in Tinubu's government was in line with party protocols. According to Orbih, Wike sought permission from various levels of the PDP before agreeing to serve in the APC-led government, ensuring transparency and cooperation with the party.
Orbih emphasized that there was no formal opposition from any PDP organ to Wike's decision. He said, “He wrote to the South-South Zonal executive. We had a meeting in Port Harcourt, and unanimously we said it was a call to national service, and we gave him our nod." He added that Wike's communication with the party at the state and local government levels was met with a positive response.
The PDP National Vice-Chairman further stressed that political parties should be careful in how they treat their members, especially when they are acting in the interest of national unity. "When he was given an invitation to serve in this government, he wrote to every critical organ of the party, informing them that Mr. President has invited him to be part of his government," Orbih said.
Orbih dismissed any negative insinuations about Wike’s role in the APC administration, explaining that Wike is working for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not for APC. He also revealed that Wike’s appointment had the approval of the PDP's Board of Trustees, as no objections were raised during their meeting with him.
Additionally, Orbih touched on his personal relationships, clarifying that his political affiliation with the PDP does not define his friendships. He noted, “I have friends across board. I have friends in Labour Party, APC, and in many other parties, but that doesn’t affect my membership and commitment to the PDP."
In a statement of unity and personal conviction, Orbih affirmed that Wike's friendship and work ethic are not confined by party lines, emphasizing his personal bond with the FCT Minister. "PDP cannot determine my friendship with Nyesom Wike, a very dependable, hard-working friend of mine," he said, reaffirming that party loyalty should not dictate personal relationships.
This marks a key moment for Orbih and the PDP as they continue to navigate their relationship with the APC-led administration, asserting that the focus should be on national service and unity.
