BY Samuel Timothy
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has firmly denied allegations of defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Appointed by President Bola Tinubu despite being a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Wike has been at the center of political controversy.
During a media briefing in Abuja, Wike declared, “It’s not correct. I’ve told you the genesis here, what happened?” He clarified his stance on political transparency, rejecting claims of secretly joining the APC. The former Rivers State governor expressed frustration over political double standards, stating, “Some people come out in the daytime and say different things, and in the night, they say different things. I don’t do that.”
Notably, during the 2023 elections, Wike openly opposed the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, citing perceived injustices within the party. He reiterated, “I came out in this country and I said I was not going to support your presidency because you are not fair. That was not justice. I didn’t hide it.”
How Tinubu’s Appointment Fuel Loyalty Claims
Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister by President Tinubu has been a lightning rod for controversy. Critics questioned the decision, considering Wike’s active membership in the PDP. Many speculated it signaled a covert defection to the APC, a claim Wike has unequivocally denied. He stated, “I never spoke to the president about joining APC. I never told anybody that, and nobody should think that.”
Despite the rumors, Wike asserted that his decisions would always be made openly and boldly. “If I want to join APC, I can do so without fear. Nobody can stop me,” he remarked, emphasizing his confidence and independence in making political choices.
Wike also addressed criticisms from within the PDP regarding his collaboration with Tinubu’s administration. He argued that his appointment was based on merit and a desire to serve the nation, rather than party affiliations. “Leadership is about delivering results, not playing to the gallery of political partisanship,” he added.
Meanwhile, the APC has also faced internal challenges linked to Wike. Rivers APC Chairman Emeka Beke recently criticized lawmakers allied with Wike for their perceived wavering loyalty, fueling further tensions in the political sphere
