In a significant political development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and a coalition of aggrieved serving and former People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governors, collectively known as the G-5, convened a behind closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
The G-5 governors, comprising Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, Samuel Ortom of Benue State, Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, had earlier taken the bold step of withholding their support for the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, during the February 2023 presidential election. Their decision was rooted in the conviction that the next president of Nigeria should emerge from the southern region.
This closed-door meeting primarily revolved around establishing a collaborative effort between President Tinubu and the former governors. Although specific details of the discussion remain undisclosed, insider reports suggest that the talks were centered on integrating the former governors into the political landscape and exploring potential areas of cooperation.
The gathering also witnessed the presence of Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, and was preceded by an initial discussion held at Nyesom Wike’s Abuja residence.
According to emerging reports, the G-5 PDP governors initially met at Wike’s residence for preliminary discussions. Subsequently, they proceeded to the Presidential Villa, where they engaged in substantive talks with President Bola Tinubu, who emerged victorious over Atiku in the 2023 elections.
During the meetings, the PDP leaders pledged and reassured President Tinubu of their total support for his administration. They also expressed their appreciation for President Tinubu’s leadership since assuming office as President.
A source close to the discussions disclosed that the talks at Wike’s residence primarily focused on finding suitable roles for the former governors and fostering a cohesive working relationship.
The timing of this high-profile meeting is notable, occurring just 24 hours before the commencement of the Imo State PDP governorship campaign in Owerri.
This meeting between the G-5 governors and President Tinubu has raised intriguing questions about the future of the PDP and the evolving political landscape in Nigeria as the nation approaches another election cycle.