In a strongly-worded press conference today, Dr. Stanley Uchenna Ezediuto, the Vice Chairman of Awgu Local Government Area, issued a stern warning to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, urging him to refrain from interfering in Enugu State politics. The statement comes in response to Wike’s recent accusations directed at Enugu State Governor Dr. Peter Mbah during a press briefing in Abuja.
Dr. Ezediuto criticized Wike for alleging that Governor Mbah was attempting to hijack the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Southeast and for questioning the governor’s ability to fund the party. “It is disheartening that such serious allegations from a senior minister go unchallenged,” he said. “Wike has a history of attacking leaders who resist his attempts to dominate the political landscape, and this behavior is unacceptable in Enugu.”
The Deputy Mayor emphasized that Governor Mbah, as the only PDP governor in the Southeast, is naturally positioned to lead the party in the region. “Was it ever in question that Dr. Mbah should be recognized as the organic leader of the PDP in the Southeast?” he asked, asserting that Mbah’s background in the private sector equips him with the necessary skills for effective governance.
Ezediuto defended Mbah’s financial management, stating, “Accusing the governor of not spending lavishly on the PDP only highlights his commitment to prudent public spending.” He attributed the lack of governorship forms in Anambra to internal party disputes, rather than Mbah’s alleged shortcomings as suggested by Wike.
The Deputy Mayor also took issue with Wike’s questioning of Mbah’s qualifications as a lawyer. “It is shameful for Wike to cast doubt on the governor’s legal credentials, especially when he himself has faced challenges in the legal arena,” he remarked. He urged Wike to reflect on his own legal career and to refrain from attacking a governor who has consistently respected the rule of law.
In closing, Dr. Ezediuto reiterated that Wike’s political antics are unwelcome in Enugu. “We respect hierarchy and good governance here,” he stated. “Nyesom Wike should keep his political madness out of the Coal City State.”
The Deputy Mayor’s remarks underscore the ongoing tensions within the PDP and highlight the need for unity and respect among party leaders as they navigate the political landscape in Nigeria.
Signed:
Dr. Stanley Uchenna Ezediuto
Deputy Mayor, Awgu LGA of Enugu State
By Ijeoma Mbah