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| FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike |
PDP: Wike Remains Our Valuable Asset, Not Joining APC
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed speculation that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, may permanently join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the former Rivers State governor remains a loyal and valuable member of the opposition party.
The PDP stated that Wike's role in the APC-led Federal Government does not amount to a political defection and reaffirmed its commitment to retaining him within its ranks.
The party's position followed recent remarks by APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who commended Wike's performance and leadership while commissioning a project in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, described the APC chairman's praise as a public acknowledgment of the quality of leadership within the PDP.
According to him, Wike's achievements as FCT minister reflect the competence and governance capacity for which the PDP is known.
Mohammed stressed that Wike remains a committed member of the party, noting that his appointment in the current administration should not be interpreted as a move to the APC.
He described Wike's engagement with the APC-led government as a "loan arrangement" that does not include any provision for a permanent transfer.
The PDP further declared that it has no intention of parting with one of its most influential political figures, warning the APC against harbouring hopes of securing his permanent defection.
The party maintained that there are no negotiations, hidden agreements, or future plans that would allow Wike to leave the PDP.
It added that his service in the Federal Government does not alter his political identity or diminish his longstanding loyalty and contributions to the opposition party.
The PDP also praised Wike's stewardship of the FCT, citing his infrastructure and urban renewal projects as evidence of effective leadership that has earned recognition across political divides.
The party said Wike's performance underscores the calibre of leaders produced by the PDP and urged Nigerians to support the party in the 2027 general elections.