Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reaffirms his allegiance to the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite facing threats of expulsion from certain party leaders. Amid the internal power struggles leading up to the 2023 presidential election, Wike advocated for maintaining the party’s internal power-sharing arrangement by advocating for the presidential ticket to be zoned to southern Nigeria. Despite withdrawing support for Atiku Abubakar, the PDP primary winner from northern Nigeria, Wike’s alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and his subsequent appointment as a minister by President Bola Tinubu raised questions about his party loyalty. However, Wike maintains his PDP membership and continues to endorse Tinubu as the APC presidential candidate for 2023.
During a media briefing in Abuja, Wike reiterated his membership in the PDP and defended his actions, stating, “I am a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Have you ever seen me change anything?” Despite his absence from significant party gatherings and campaign events, Wike stands by his decision not to support the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, emphasizing his commitment to the rule of law.
Wike dismisses calls for his suspension from the PDP, arguing that his actions were justified and in line with the party’s constitution. He asserts that his focus now is on governance and fulfilling his duties as FCT minister. Looking ahead, Wike suggests that political allegiances may shift in the future, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing governance over politics until the next electoral cycle.
