Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has firmly dissociated himself from ongoing efforts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to expel the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. In a statement released on Monday, Governor Fintiri made it clear that he had no involvement in — and does not support — any decision aimed at removing Wike from the party, stressing that such a move would be detrimental to the PDP’s stability and future.
Governor Fintiri’s reaction came amid reports that sections of the party leadership and some stakeholders are pushing for punitive action against the former Rivers State governor, whose perceived closeness to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has remained a source of internal conflict within the PDP. The calls for Wike’s expulsion have heightened tensions as the party navigates a post-election period marked by division, mistrust, and competing power blocs.
However, Fintiri, known for his conciliatory style and influential role in Northern PDP politics, moved swiftly to distance himself from the development. According to him, expelling a major figure like Wike would not only worsen existing cracks within the party but could also push the PDP further into crisis at a time when unity is urgently needed.
“I, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Governor of Adamawa State, wish to categorically state that I dissociate myself from the position of expelling the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from the PDP,” he declared. “I believe that this decision is not in the best interest of the party, and I will not be party to any attempt that could further plunge the PDP into unending crisis.”
The governor emphasized that his stance is rooted in his loyalty to the PDP and his desire to see the party rebuilt, strengthened, and repositioned for future electoral contests. Rather than punitive measures, Fintiri said reconciliation, dialogue, and bridge-building should be the guiding principles at this critical moment in the party’s history.
“As a faithful party member, my position is clear: I stand for the peace and stability of the PDP, and I will not support anything that could lead to its disintegration,” he noted. “I believe that peace and reconciliation are the only ways forward for our great party.”
Stakeholders across the political spectrum have interpreted Fintiri’s statement as a significant intervention, considering his prominence within the PDP Governors’ Forum and his reputation as a stabilizing force. Analysts observe that the Adamawa governor’s position could influence other leaders to rethink hardline strategies and explore more constructive engagement with Wike, who still commands considerable influence both within and outside the party.
In recent months, the PDP has grappled with leadership disputes, factional disagreements, and internal recriminations over its performance in the general elections. The lingering fallout from the 2023 presidential primaries — where Wike’s camp felt sidelined — has continued to fuel mistrust. Wike’s acceptance of a ministerial appointment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s APC-led government further aggravated tensions, prompting calls from some members for disciplinary action.
But for Fintiri, these issues must be addressed with diplomacy, not antagonism. He appealed to stakeholders to prioritize healing over conflict and to consider the long-term implications of any action taken against prominent members, regardless of disagreements.
“I urge all stakeholders to work towards healing the divisions within the party and to strive for unity and cohesion,” he said. “As a party man, I am committed to supporting efforts that promote peace, stability, and progress within the PDP.”
Party insiders say Fintiri’s message reflects growing concerns among moderates who believe that a major showdown with Wike could trigger mass defections, further weaken the PDP’s national presence, and complicate its prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections. The governor’s stance may therefore serve as a rallying point for members seeking a more strategic, less confrontational approach.
Reaffirming his commitment to reconciliation, Fintiri stressed that his position is driven solely by the need to safeguard the soul of the party and ensure its survival in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political landscape.
“Let me reiterate that my position is guided by the desire for peace and reconciliation, and I will continue to work towards achieving this goal,” he assured.
As the PDP continues to navigate its internal challenges, Governor Fintiri’s intervention adds a significant voice to the call for unity. Whether the party leadership will adopt a reconciliatory path or push ahead with disciplinary measures against Wike remains to be seen. For now, however, Fintiri’s stance underscores a growing awareness that the PDP’s future may depend on its ability to manage internal conflicts through dialogue, inclusion, and a shared commitment to rebuilding the party.
