‘I made PDP popular’ – Wike fires back at Bode George

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has responded to comments made by Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain Bode George, who claimed the party was responsible for Wike’s political rise.

Speaking during his monthly press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike rejected the assertion, contending that his own efforts brought visibility and electoral success to the PDP, contrary to George’s record in Lagos State.

Wike did not hold back in his criticism, suggesting that the elder statesman should withdraw from political commentary if he no longer holds an active role.

“If an old man has no job, Bode George should sit in his house and read newspapers,” Wike said.

He also addressed George’s comments about the temporary sealing of the PDP’s National Secretariat due to unpaid ground rent, clarifying his stance on the matter.

“If not for presidential intervention, people said heaven would come down, I can’t pay and even them can’t pay because it’s not in my name,” he stated.

Wike acknowledged the party’s role in elevating his profile but emphasized that personal effort is what ultimately drives political victories.

“Bode George said PDP made me by giving me a national name, I agree, but the party can’t make you; you are the one who will make the party win elections,” he said.

Wike, while challenging George’s legacy in Lagos, questioned the PDP’s electoral impact in the state since 1999, contrasting it with his own contributions to the party’s success at both state and national levels.

“Ask Bode George who PDP made popular in Lagos since 1999? Then you are talking to me, who has laboured and campaigned for the party to be the major party at the state and national level.”

“While in your state, the party has been crying daily. Even when Jonathan was in power, we knew what we did for PDP to take over power, but it didn’t work.”