Efforts to stabilize the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a new turn on Saturday evening as two influential governors, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State and Barr. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State openly rejected the push to expel Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and other prominent party leaders.
Governor Fintiri, in a strongly worded statement, categorically dissociated himself from the controversial initiative, warning that the move threatens to inflame existing tensions within the PDP. According to him, any attempt to sanction or expel high-profile members at this sensitive moment would not only be ill-timed but could also plunge the party into deeper instability.
Fintiri stressed that his commitment remains firmly anchored in unity, peace, and reconciliation. He urged all party organs and leaders to prioritize healing over hostility, noting that only dialogue and strategic collaboration can reposition the PDP for national relevance. “I will not support any action capable of worsening the party’s internal divisions,” he said, reiterating his resolve to promote cohesion and long-term stability.
Similarly, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang distanced himself from the same proposal, which also targets former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, former PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and several other party stalwarts.
In a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, Mutfwang clarified that the expulsion matter was never brought to the PDP Governors’ Forum, nor tabled at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. He emphasized that the idea neither reflects the Forum’s collective judgment nor his personal stance.
Mutfwang cautioned that initiating expulsions during a period of internal reorganization would be politically unwise. He called on party stakeholders to focus on rebuilding structures, strengthening internal trust, and adopting a unified approach to resolving ongoing challenges.
Key Absences Noted at the Meeting
The controversial motion was presented at a gathering where several key party leaders were noticeably absent:
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke did not attend the meeting in person; however, he was officially represented by his deputy.
Taraba State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas was absent, with no formal representation disclosed.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was also absent from the meeting, a point that has generated quiet conversations within party circles given the significance of the issue and his political proximity to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Their absences added further complexity to an already contentious development, fueling speculation regarding the level of consultation and consensus behind the expulsion push.
Call for Unity Amid Rising Tensions
Despite the swirling controversy, both Fintiri and Mutfwang insisted that the PDP must resist divisive actions and instead work toward rebuilding public confidence. They stressed that reconciliation, not punitive measures is the only viable path to restoring the party’s influence ahead of future elections.
Their unified stance sends a clear message: the PDP must prioritize collective strength, internal dialogue, and structured conflict resolution if it hopes to overcome current challenges and emerge stronger.