Mark Dismisses FCT Minister’s Influence in Party Affairs
By Rafiyat Sadiq
A former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Jacob Mark, has dismissed the perceived influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in the affairs of the party, declaring that Wike neither speaks for the PDP nor has the power to determine the party’s direction.
Mark made the remarks during an interview on Arise News, where he responded to questions about whether Wike, a former governor of Rivers State now serving in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, would support the return and possible candidacy of former Anambra State Governor Mr Peter Obi ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Mark, the assumption that Wike controls the PDP is exaggerated and not backed by facts. He said the former Rivers governor has not attended any official party meeting in over a year.
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“Wike is not a member of the PDP in the real sense,” Mark stated. “He hasn’t attended any NEC meetings or party functions. So when people say he is in control, I get worried. It shows a lack of proper investigation.”
Mark, who spoke from Kaduna, said the state chapter of the PDP is focused on preparations for upcoming bye-elections, without any input from Wike.
“I’m in Kaduna for a caucus meeting concerning our federal constituency bye-election. The entire PDP structure here is intact, and no one even talks about Wike. Whatever he’s doing in Abuja is unknown to us,” he said.
‘He Has No Grip on the North’
Mark further stated that Wike holds no political sway in the northern states, particularly Kaduna.
“Wike has zero influence in Kaduna. Go to Plateau, Benue, or any other northern state; he’s not known politically,” he said.
He questioned the belief that Wike’s alleged relationship with some National Working Committee members translates to control of the PDP.
“Maybe he has some friends in the NWC or people doing his bidding in Abuja, but that doesn’t amount to leadership of the party. His influence is being grossly overstated,” he said.
Mark also criticised those who, according to him, have refused to make way for others within the party.
“Some individuals who refused to retire have blocked the growth of others. Now that a few of them have left, new people are rising. That’s how progress happens. You don’t wear the same jersey forever; you retire and allow fresh legs to play,” he said.
PDP Will Emerge Stronger
He expressed confidence in the efforts of party founders to regroup and reposition the PDP as a credible opposition force.
“With the regrouping and refocusing going on, Nigerians will soon see a more vibrant and united PDP,” he said.
On the question of Peter Obi’s return to the PDP, Mark said the former vice-presidential candidate should not be deterred by talks of Wike’s influence.
“If Obi wants to return to the PDP, he should know that Wike cannot stop him. We are rebuilding the party, and everyone who means well is welcome,” he concluded.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
