By Adeyemi Adeleye
- Lagos: The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday dismissed recent comments by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike against party chieftain Chief Olabode George.
Wike had questioned George’s claim as a founding father and conscience of the PDP during a monthly media briefing on Tuesday.
The minister also criticised George’s political influence, arguing that the PDP had failed to secure electoral victories in Lagos State since 1999.
Wike further challenged George to explain the source of funds for his Maitama residence, alleging links between the property and Rivers resources.
Reacting at a news conference in Lagos, PDP Publicity Secretary Dr Christopher Odianarewo described Wike’s remarks as “unfortunate and unnecessary”.
Odianarewo said the comments failed to reflect facts surrounding George’s public service record and contributions to the PDP
He urged Wike to focus on his responsibilities as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory rather than engaging in personal attacks.
According to him, George was cleared by the Supreme Court of allegations connected to his tenure as Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority Board.
“The judicial decision should be respected and should not be revisited through political comments,” Odianarewo said.
He also faulted Wike’s remarks concerning George’s private residence, insisting that the property remained a personal matter.
“Public office holders should exercise restraint and avoid comments perceived as targeting private citizens without lawful basis,” he said.
Odianarewo rejected Wike’s assessment of Lagos PDP’s electoral history, saying it did not accurately reflect past political developments.
He maintained that George provided significant leadership within the PDP and contributed to the party’s successes across the country.
The spokesman also accused Wike of political inconsistency, alleging that he had fallen out with several political associates over the years.
He called on political leaders to embrace constructive engagement and avoid personal attacks capable of deepening divisions within the party.
Odianarewo reaffirmed the Lagos PDP’s respect for George and urged political actors to uphold civility, institutional respect and the rule of law.
Also speaking, Dr Adetokunbo Pearse expressed confidence that the court appeal involving the party’s leadership dispute would favour his faction.
Pearse is the PDP Lagos State governorship candidate Pearse aligned with the faction led by former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Turaki.
Accompanied by his deputy governorship candidate, Mrs Abosede Akorede, Pearse criticised the Wike-aligned camp recognised by the electoral commission.
“We are not worrying about what is going on now. It is just a matter of time, justice will prevail,” he said.
He alleged that individuals on the recognised list were “APC surrogates that are parading themselves as PDP.
“They may be on the list today; before this election, they will not be on that list. We are in court and optimistic,” Pearse said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that local government chairmen and state executive members attended the conference.
Among those present were Deputy Chairman, Kunle Koya, and State Secretary, Ismail Abiola, alongside other party officials. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)