Chief Dan Orbih, National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South, has declared that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is not the problem of the party, insisting that the real challenge lies with individuals who seek to contest every presidential election without regard for the party’s constitution.

Orbih made the remark on Wednesday in Benin City, during the official handover of a new PDP state secretariat which he donated to the party, ending months of the Edo chapter operating without a central office.

According to Orbih, also the leader of the PDP Legacy Group in Edo, “Wike is not the party’s problem. The real issue is those who want to run every time without following the party’s constitutional guidelines.”

He called on the PDP Acting National Chairman, Amb. Iliya Damagun, to begin the process of congresses that would bring in new, credible leadership to reposition the party and restore its lost glory.

“PDP is a strong and formidable party, but it still has challenges that we cannot afford to ignore or sweep under the carpet,” Orbih said.

He stressed the need for unity and sincerity among members to rebuild the party’s structure and image, especially ahead of future political contests.

Orbih revealed that the new secretariat became necessary after the PDP was evicted from its former state office along Airport Road on January 17, 2025. Since then, the party had been without a central office, a situation he said demoralized many members.

“A few weeks ago, I made a commitment during our meeting to donate a secretariat to the party. Today, I have fulfilled that promise,” he said.

“Today marks a new chapter. We celebrate the official opening of a befitting PDP state secretariat, putting an end to being labeled homeless.”

He also took a swipe at members of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, warning them against issuing statements on behalf of the party.

“They are not recognised by the PDP constitution and can no longer represent the party after working to undermine it,” Orbih stated.

“From this day forward, we will not acknowledge any statements unless they come from those who will be managing PDP in Edo.”

Expressing disappointment over the party’s dwindling political fortunes in the state, Orbih lamented the loss of two Senate seats, a majority in the House of Representatives, and the governorship to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Nonetheless, he commended Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State for his humility and respect for traditional institutions, saying his approach to governance is refreshing.

“Today, we are seeing a different act of governance. We appreciate what you are doing and urge you to continue,” he added. NAN