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Published on 2024-03-14 23:00:02
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has recently addressed claims surrounding his alleged defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Despite not being visibly present at People’s Democratic Party (PDP) events and off-cycle election campaigns, Wike has emphasized that he remains a card-carrying member of the main opposition party.
Wike, who previously served as the governor of Rivers state, experienced a fallout with top PDP chieftains, including Atiku Abubakar, during the 2023 presidential election. While supporting Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the presidency, Wike expressed no regrets about his choices and actions.
The former governor, alongside his G5 faction comprising Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu state, Samuel Ortom of Benue, and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia state, advocated for the removal of the suspended national chairman of PDP, Iyorchia Ayu. Despite not backing Atiku Abubakar during the PDP primary election, Wike’s support for Tinubu led to speculation about his party allegiance.
Tinubu later appointed Wike as a minister, sparking debates about his PDP membership status. Despite facing expulsion threats from within the PDP, Wike maintained his allegiance to the party and reiterated his support for Tinubu’s presidential bid in 2023.
At a media parley with journalists in Abuja, Wike reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP, stating, “I am a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Have you ever seen me change anything?” Despite his absence from key party gatherings and campaigns, Wike stands by his decisions and urged others to take responsibility for their actions.
Amid calls for his expulsion, Wike’s position within the PDP remains unchanged. His actions have sparked discussions within the party, with some like Segun Showunmi, a former PDP gubernatorial candidate from Ogun state, viewing Wike’s situation as an opportunity for the party to address internal challenges.
Showunmi emphasized the need for a new model to handle crises like those involving Wike, stating, “The man is on sabbatical working in APC, and we just let him continue in that direction. People who don’t accept that the political party is beyond one individual are the problem; it’s not Wike.”
In conclusion, Nyesom Wike’s affirmed loyalty to the PDP amidst speculations about his party affiliation reflects the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics. As he navigates through political rifts and alliances, Wike’s actions serve as a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of political parties and movements in the country.
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