The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Panel has recommended Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike as running mate to presidential flag bearer Atiku Abubakar.
It took the decision yesterday after a marathon meeting of the National Advisory Committee, an ad-hoc panel set up by the party leadership to recommend a suitable running mate for the candidate.
It was learned that Wike was picked following a voice vote. He polled 16 votes out of 20.
Three other governors – Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu) were sidelined for the Rivers governor.
It was gathered that Atiku has on May 30 offered Wike the vice-presidential slot but the governor was said to have pleaded for time to enable him to make consultations.
It was further learned that Governor Ortom was consulted by Wike.
According to sources, Ortom encouraged Wike to accept the offer.
The panel is chaired by PDP Deputy National Chairman (North), Ambassador Umar Damaged.
