Nyesom Wike Claims PDP Endorsed His Appointment as FCT Minister

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has revealed that his appointment by President Bola Tinubu had the full backing of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

According to Wike, the PDP not only approved his appointment but actively encouraged him to accept the position.

Wike’s disclosure came during an appearance on Politics Today, a programme on Channels TV, where he discussed the events leading to his acceptance of the ministerial role.

This revelation has sparked discussions within political circles, particularly regarding Wike’s role in the 2023 general elections, where he notably worked against the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in favour of President Tinubu, who emerged victorious.

During the interview, Wike stated that before taking up the role of FCT Minister, he made sure to seek approval from the PDP at various levels.

He mentioned that he wrote letters to key party stakeholders, including the national, zonal, and state leadership of the PDP.

His efforts were not in isolation, as Governor Fubara, Wike’s political ally and successor as governor of Rivers State, also supported the move.

“Before I took this appointment, I wrote to the PDP. I wrote to PDP National; I wrote to PDP Zonal; I wrote to PDP in my state,” Wike said during the interview.

He further emphasised that Governor Fubara co-signed the approval, ensuring that his acceptance of the position was not only a personal decision but also one supported by his home state and party.

This approach by Wike suggests that he wanted to ensure transparency in his decision-making process.

Given his prominent role in the PDP and the controversy surrounding his support for Tinubu during the elections, Wike was likely aware of the potential backlash he might face within the party.

By seeking approval from party structures, he appears to have taken steps to mitigate any internal party discord.

Wike’s appointment as the FCT Minister has added another layer of complexity to the political landscape, especially considering his role in the 2023 presidential election.

During that election, Wike had been a critical figure in the PDP, but he chose to support Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) rather than the PDP’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

His decision to back Tinubu significantly contributed to the outcome of the election and played a part in Tinubu’s eventual victory.

Wike’s actions during the election strained his relationship with the PDP leadership, particularly with figures loyal to Atiku.

Many within the party viewed his actions as a betrayal, as Wike had previously been a key player in the PDP’s internal politics.

Despite this, Wike has maintained that he acted in the best interest of his state and his political future.

However, his relationship with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has not been as smooth. Shortly after Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister, tensions arose between the two political leaders.

The crux of the disagreement centred around allegations that Wike was imposing his political will on the new governor. Reports emerged that Wike was attempting to influence decisions in Rivers State, a move that did not sit well with Governor Fubara.

The allegations of interference have led to a crisis in the state, with some suggesting that the rift could widen if not carefully managed.

The fallout between Wike and Fubara has cast a shadow over the political stability in Rivers State.

While Wike remains a towering figure in the state’s political scene, his influence over the affairs of the state has come into question.

Governor Fubara, who succeeded Wike with the backing of his predecessor, now faces the challenge of establishing his own authority while balancing the expectations of his political mentor.

Reports suggest that the tensions stem from Wike’s insistence on controlling key aspects of governance in Rivers State, despite no longer being governor.

This has raised concerns within the political establishment in the state, as many fear that the power struggle could derail the state’s development and stability.

Governor Fubara, on the other hand, is seeking to assert his independence and prove that he is capable of leading without Wike’s direct involvement.

This crisis has created uncertainty, with political observers questioning whether the PDP leadership can intervene to resolve the dispute.

The state, which has long been a PDP stronghold, is at risk of experiencing deep political divisions, which could have implications for future elections and governance.

Nyesom Wike’s claim that the PDP and Governor Fubara endorsed his appointment as FCT Minister adds a significant twist to his political journey.

His decision to work with Tinubu, despite being a high-ranking member of the PDP, has reshaped his role in Nigerian politics.

While Wike remains a controversial figure, his influence, both in Rivers State and at the national level, cannot be understated.

The crisis with Governor Fubara, however, highlights the challenges that come with transitioning from one political role to another. Wike’s ability to navigate these tensions will determine whether he can maintain his political relevance and continue to exert influence within the PDP and beyond.

As the situation in Rivers State unfolds, it will be crucial to watch how Wike’s relationship with his party and his successor evolves.