The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, remains a loyal member of the party, dismissing any suggestion that his role in the APC-led Federal Government could lead to a permanent political realignment.
The party made the clarification on Wednesday while reacting to recent remarks by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who praised Wike’s leadership and performance during the commissioning of a project in Abuja.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the PDP described the APC chairman’s commendation of the former Rivers State governor as a public acknowledgment of the quality of leadership and competence within the opposition party.
The PDP said the praise directed at Wike further demonstrated that the party remains home to some of Nigeria’s most accomplished and result-oriented political leaders.
While welcoming the recognition, the party stressed that Wike’s appointment and service in the current administration should not be interpreted as an indication of a possible defection to the ruling APC.
The party humorously likened Wike’s role in the Federal Government to a temporary loan arrangement, insisting that there was no provision for a permanent transfer.
“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 statement said.
The PDP maintained that it had no intention of relinquishing one of its most valuable political assets, regardless of any political overtures.
According to the party, Wike’s achievements in infrastructure development, urban renewal and governance reforms in the Federal Capital Territory have earned him commendation from Nigerians across political and social divides.
The opposition party argued that Wike’s performance as FCT Minister reflects the leadership capacity and administrative competence that the PDP has consistently produced over the years.
The party further stated that Wike’s influence, political relevance and ability to deliver tangible results have made him one of the most consequential figures in contemporary Nigerian politics.
It also asserted that the PDP possesses a deep reservoir of capable leaders and technocrats who, if given similar opportunities, would excel in public office and contribute significantly to national development.
The party used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to support the PDP in future elections, particularly in 2027, saying the country’s developmental aspirations would be better served by leaders with proven records of performance.
The party thanked the APC National Chairman for what it described as his generous recognition of Wike and, by extension, the enduring value of the party as a platform capable of providing credible leadership and practical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges. Authority.
