Wike Blasts PDP Chairman Over Trump Intervention Call
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has strongly condemned the recent appeal by Tanimu Turaki, the new factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who called on former United States President Donald Trump to intervene in Nigeria's political affairs. The controversy emerged after a video went viral showing Turaki making the unexpected plea for foreign assistance.
PDP Chairman's Controversial Appeal to Trump
During a press conference on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Turaki addressed the ongoing crisis within the PDP and made a direct appeal to Donald Trump. The senior advocate of Nigeria asked the former US president to save democracy in Nigeria, citing what he described as threats to the nation's democratic processes. Turaki specifically referenced Trump's previous statements about protecting Christians in Nigeria, expanding the call to include democratic preservation.
Turaki stated: "I want to call on President Trump; what is at stake is not just genocide against Nigerian Christians. He should come and save democracy in Nigeria. Democracy is under threat. I'm calling on all other developed nations: come and save Nigeria, come and save democracy."
Wike's Strong Reaction to Foreign Intervention Plea
Responding to the developing situation on Wednesday, November 19, Wike expressed his disappointment with his party colleague's approach. The FCT minister emphasized that the PDP should focus on resolving its internal conflicts rather than seeking external solutions. Wike highlighted that the party's failure to maintain internal discipline should not be blamed on external factors.
Wike declared: "Look at the threat made. When you cannot obey simple court judgments - 'don't do this until you have done this'. Now, you are turning it around against a government. What is their business? You cannot keep your house in order. You are blaming an outsider for not keeping your house in order. Who does that?"
The minister further criticized what he described as a culture of impunity within the party, warning that such approaches cannot continue indefinitely. His comments came amid escalating tensions within the PDP that recently saw supporters from different factions clashing at the party's Wadata Plaza secretariat in Abuja.
Background of the PDP Internal Crisis
The appeal to Trump comes against the backdrop of a prolonged leadership struggle within the opposition party. Turaki's faction recently gained access to the PDP national secretariat following a prolonged standoff, adding another layer to the party's internal conflicts. The crisis has seen various party leaders proposing different solutions, with some calling for the suspension of the national convention while others advocate for immediate reforms.
The situation has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum, with the ruling All Progressives Congress previously describing similar calls for foreign intervention as "high treason." As the PDP continues to navigate its internal challenges, Wike's latest comments underscore the deep divisions within the party and the ongoing debate about how to address its structural problems.
