Wike’s Influence In PDP, Symptom Of Lapses In The Party – Kalu

Chief Emeka Charles Kalu, a People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and National Coordinator, PDP Coalition (PDPCO), is also Director General, Global Initiatives for Good Governance (GIGG). Dr Kalu, a power engineer, who aspires for the Abia North Senatorial District seat in the National Assembly come 2027, in this interview with EJIKEME OMENAZU speaks on the crisis in his party, the state of emergency rule in Rivers State, as well as other crucial issues in the polity. Excerpt: You have remained silent for some time now.

Are you worried or con­cerned about the happenings in the nation at all? As a concerned citizen, I have been reflecting on the nation’s challenges. While silence does not necessarily mean indifference, my focus has been on understanding the complexities of these issues and considering constructive ways to contribute to the national con­versation. I am committed to en­gaging in meaningful discussions that promote progress because we do not have any other country to call our own.



So, I am not silent; I am optimistic that one day soon, the needed solution will come. There seems to be no solution in sight for the crisis in your party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Why do you think this crisis has remained unresolved? The crisis in the PDP stems from internal conflicts, leader­ship struggles, and differing ide­ologies.

Without a unified vision, the party may struggle to find common ground. Effective lead­ership, open communication, and the willingness to compromise are essential for resolving these crises. However, the leaders laden with this responsibility appear to be indifferent and more focused on their personal, rather than the party’s interests.

But I am optimis­tic that in no distant time, wisdom and compromise will prevail over ego, and then the party will bounce back. How do you see the situation where one man, Nyesom Wike, seems to be holding your party to ransom at virtu­ally every level, while the party leaders seem to be helpless? This situation highlights the complexities of party politics. Nyesom Wike’s influence within the party is merely a symptom of deeper structural issues or power dynamics.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders may need to reassess their strategies and en­gage in dialogue to address these challenges. This is in line with my earlier statement that until the leadership of the party places the survival of the party over personal interest, lone actors like Nyesom Wike will continue to have a field day in their quest to destabilise the party to suit their personal interests. Many do not think that the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu is the solu­tion to the political crisis in the state.

Do you think so too? If so, why? Declaring a state of emergen­cy might not be the most effec­tive solution, as it may escalate tensions or create new challeng­es. Sustainable solutions often require addressing underlying issues, engaging with local stake­holders, and implementing target­ed interventions that promote sta­bility and development. The issue of state of emergency in Rivers State is more political than we see it to be.

Indeed, it is a fight for the heart of River State which played a pivotal role in what happened in 2023. Therefore, our worry now is not the legality or otherwise, but of what the declaration portends as it has already been done. My concern is: Will history repeat it­self in 2027? How do you see some of the actions of the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ette Ibas (rtd), so far? Without specific details on his actions, it is challenging to provide a comprehensive assessment.

Ef­fective governance requires un­derstanding local needs, engaging with stakeholders, and imple­menting policies that promote the well-being of citizens. However, the steps taken by the Sole Admin­istrator so far does not show he is leaving anytime soon. His instruc­tions are specific and he is acting out the script perfectly well.

With the ongoing re-strategising by political forces nationwide, what do you think the shape of politics towards 2027 will look like? The 2027 political landscape will likely be shaped by various factors, including shifting voter priorities, emerging leaders, and evolving party dynamics. As citi­zens become more informed and engaged, politicians will need to adapt to changing expectations and priorities. It is too early to make conclusions on possible out­comes of 2027 dynamic as they will be many and unpredictable.

Do you foresee the defeat of the incumbent president and the ruling party in 2027? Why not? Any party can be de­feated if the opposition works hard enough for it. However, predicting election outcomes is challenging due to the complex interplay of fac­tors influencing voter decisions. The incumbent president and ruling party will need to demon­strate responsiveness to citizen needs, effective governance, and a compelling vision for the future to maintain public support because winning election is beyond strug­gle to grab power, what you do with power matters a lot, then when you lose popularity, any good opposi­tion can cash in on it to unseat the party in charge.

Nigerians have lost confidence in the government of President Tinubu and need res­cue. What the opposition does with it to help rescue the people is up to them. Lagos State will conduct the local council elections next month.

Do you think Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in a position to make much impact in that election? The Lagos PDP’s success in the local council elections will depend on various factors, including can­didate selection, campaign strate­gy, voter engagement, and ability to address local issues effectively. But, by capacity and popularity, PDP stands a great chance of win­ning many councils as the biggest opposition party, if free and fair elections are allowed. Then of course, for APC, the election is a do-or-die affair where the winner takes all.

Whatever the outcome, Nigeria must continue to evolve till when election becomes a ve­hicle for service not an avenue for personal aggrandisement and compensation of cronies. How have you been pursuing your dream to represent Abia North in the Senate come 2027? Pursuing a senatorial seat re­quires building relationships with constituents, understanding local needs, and developing a compel­ling vision for the future. We are making tremendous inroads in that respect.

Engaging in grass­roots outreach, policy develop­ment, and community service will help establish a strong foundation for a successful campaign, I am not leaving any stone unturned. Much as we are not yet in campaign peri­od, I assure you that the Senatorial project is one I am taking very se­riously because I love my people, because I believe in change and paradigm shift, because I believe that if certain things are done dif­ferently, the people will feel differ­ently because that is what leader­ship is about, offering solution to known problems. What are your agenda for the people of Abia North? If I become the senator repre­senting Abia North, I will give the people excellent representation and attract more dividends of democracy to the area.

I strongly believe in these spiritual words as I, on daily basis, rely on God’s guidance to be supported and elect­ed the next Senator to represent Abia North in the Red Chamber wing of the forthcoming 11th Na­tional Assembly. My joy is that I have good plans to touch the lives of my constituents when elected and my target is to build a greater Abia North where social amenities would be easily accessed by my people. By God’s grace, my fami­ly feeds daily three square meals and it is not hunger, desperation or lack that are spurring me to run for such a position.

Rather, my sincere ambition is to salvage my people from poor representa­tion in national governance. In my prospective time as a Senator, as God permits, the people of Abia North Senatorial District are sure to breathe a fresh air of comfort, confirming themselves that a ser­vant of the people has emerged. Believe it or not, I can simply tell you that my impact would be pos­itively felt in the Senate when my people, through their votes, send me to Abuja for this very task.

The Lord is our strength, for no man is given power, except God permits it. Just like what the Holy Book also affirms in John 27 vs 3: No man re­ceived anything except it cometh from Above..