Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has openly disowned the expulsion of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party that is reportedly under the influence of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. His position has added a new dimension to the widening tension within the opposition party as senior figures continue to clash over the direction of the party ahead of future national elections.
The Governor issued the disclaimer through a detailed statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, where he clarified that he neither sanctioned nor supported the controversial decision. He emphasised that any attempt to alienate prominent members at a critical moment would only endanger the future of the Peoples Democratic Party. Okay News reports that the statement attracted immediate nationwide attention as party leaders and political observers examined the implications for the party’s unity.
Governor Fintiri stressed his complete neutrality in the expulsion process, firmly stating, “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, @GovWike, from @OfficialPDPNig (PDP).”
Expanding further, he insisted that such disciplinary actions should never be taken rashly, especially in a party that requires collective strength to prepare for future electoral battles. “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 Peoples Democratic Party into unending crisis,” he said.
Governor Fintiri underlined his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party, reminding Nigerians and members of the party that he has always supported internal dialogue, genuine reconciliation, and peaceful conflict resolution. He stated, “As a faithful party member, my position is clear: I stand for the peace and stability of the Peoples Democratic Party, and I will not support anything that could lead to its disintegration.”
The Adamawa State Governor appealed to party stakeholders across Nigeria to redirect their focus from factional battles to meaningful reconciliation. According to him, the Peoples Democratic Party will only regain national stability and credibility if its members commit to inclusive solutions. “I believe that peace and reconciliation are the only ways forward for our great party,” he said. “I urge all stakeholders to work towards healing the divisions within the party and to strive for unity and cohesion.”
He concluded by expressing readiness to participate in any peace-building process that strengthens internal harmony. “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 added.
These fresh disagreements have deepened the internal crisis that has troubled the Peoples Democratic Party for months, especially as several power blocs appear divided on the right strategies to reposition the twenty five year old party for future national relevance.