…insists FCT Minister remains ‘loyal party asset’
By Lateef Ibrahim
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed any suggestion that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, could permanently align with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that he remains a loyal and valuable member of the opposition party.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, made the position known on Wednesday in Abuja while reacting to recent commendations of Wike by APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.
Mohammed said the PDP was not surprised by Yilwatda’s praise of the FCT minister’s performance, describing it as a recognition of the quality of leadership the opposition party has consistently produced.
While welcoming the acknowledgment, he stressed that Wike’s role in the APC-led Federal Government should not be interpreted as a sign of a possible political defection.
According to him, Wike’s engagement with the administration is merely a temporary arrangement and not an indication of a permanent transfer to the ruling party.
“There is no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal,” Mohammed said, adding that the PDP has no intention of relinquishing one of its most influential political figures.
He cautioned the APC against nurturing hopes of recruiting Wike, maintaining that the minister remains one of the PDP’s most prized political assets.
Mohammed further stated that Wike’s achievements in the FCT, particularly in infrastructure development and urban renewal, have reinforced the PDP’s reputation for producing capable leaders.
The party spokesman also argued that the APC chairman’s remarks amounted to an endorsement of the PDP’s talent pool, noting that several other leaders within the opposition party could deliver similar or even better results if given the opportunity.
He urged Nigerians to support the PDP in the 2027 general elections, saying the party possesses the leadership capacity needed to replicate the developmental strides attributed to Wike across the country.
The statement comes amid continued political speculation over Wike’s relationship with the APC-led administration despite his insistence that he remains a member of the PDP.
