PDP Says Wike is Still Their Key Player, Not Joining APC

The Peoples Democratic Party has rejected ideas that Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, could join the ruling All Progressives Congress. They insist he is still one of their most important political figures, even while working in the APC-led government.

Jungudo Mohammed, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, said in a statement on Wednesday that they have no plans to let go of Wike, no matter what anyone offers or suggests.

This statement came after the National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, praised Wike's work and leadership while opening a project in Abuja on Tuesday.

In response, the PDP said this praise shows the quality of leadership within their party and confirmed that Wike is still an important member of the PDP.

The statement said, "The Peoples Democratic Party has noted with amusement the candid acknowledgment by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, of the remarkable contributions, exceptional leadership, and outstanding performance of one of the PDP’s finest assets, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, during the commissioning of a major project in Abuja.

"The commendation by the APC National Chairman is yet another public acknowledgment of the quality, competence, and leadership capacity that the PDP continues to offer Nigeria. It also reinforces the fact that the PDP remains home to some of the country’s most accomplished and result-oriented leaders.

"But while we welcome the open admiration expressed by the APC National Chairman and the glowing accolades showered on our national leader, it is necessary to clarify that Barrister Wike remains a committed and loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

"As Professor Yilwatda himself implied, Barrister Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration is best described as a loan arrangement, and we wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal."

The PDP emphasized that Wike’s position in the APC-led government should not be seen as a sign that he is leaving their party. They stressed that his appointment has not changed his political loyalty or reduced his contributions to the PDP.

They added, "We further wish to state that the PDP has no intention whatsoever of parting with one of its most valuable political assets, regardless of any offers or overtures that may be made. The APC is therefore advised to refrain from entertaining any hopes of a permanent acquisition, as such a move would be firmly resisted.

"The PDP is not in the business of disposing of its finest political talents. Barrister Nyesom Wike remains one of the party’s most valuable assets and there are no plans, ongoing negotiations, hidden clauses, or future options that would permit a permanent move.

"His service in the current APC-led administration should not be misconstrued as a possible political transfer. It does not in any way alter his political identity or diminish his longstanding loyalty, commitment, and immense contributions to the Peoples Democratic Party. The present leadership of the party fully acknowledges, appreciates, and remains grateful for his invaluable role in strengthening and advancing the PDP over the years.

"It is not in doubt that, through his visionary leadership, commitment to service, and execution of numerous landmark projects, Barrister Wike has transformed critical aspects of the nation’s capital, earning commendation from citizens across political, ethnic and religious divides. The PDP is proud of his exceptional performance as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory."

The PDP said Wike’s successes in building infrastructure and renewing urban areas show the leadership skills the party has always produced in public office.

They added that his work as FCT minister proves the PDP's ability to provide good governance.

The party also noted that the praise from the APC national chairman highlights Wike’s political importance and influence.

They encouraged Nigerians to support the PDP in 2027, saying the party has many capable leaders ready to lead national development.