ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has reaffirmed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, remains firmly rooted in its fold, dismissing speculations that his role in the administration of President Bola Tinubu could eventually translate into a permanent switch to the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC).
The opposition party said Wike continues to be one of its most treasured political figures and stressed that there is no intention to allow him leave the PDP regardless of any overtures from the APC.
The clarification followed comments made on Tuesday by APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who praised the FCT minister’s leadership qualities and performance while inaugurating a project in Abuja.
Reacting to the commendation, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said the remarks by the APC chairman merely underscored the calibre of leaders produced by the opposition party and shoulda not be interpreted as a sign that Wike was drifting away from the PDP.
According to Mohammed, Wike’s appointment in the APC-led Federal Government has not altered his political identity, loyalty or commitment to the PDP.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party 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.
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“However, 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 party insisted that Wike’s service in the current administration should not be misconstrued as a political defection, maintaining that his longstanding relationship with the PDP remains intact.
Reiterating its position, the PDP stated, “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.”
The opposition party further lauded Wike’s performance as FCT minister, noting that his leadership and implementation of major projects had significantly transformed the nation’s capital and attracted commendation from Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious lines.
“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 statement added.
The PDP said Wike’s accomplishments in infrastructure development and urban renewal reflect the competence, administrative capacity and leadership culture for which the party is known.
According to the party, the minister’s performance in Abuja serves as evidence of the PDP’s ability to provide effective governance and deliver meaningful development when entrusted with public office.
It also argued that the commendation from the APC national chairman highlights Wike’s enduring political relevance and influence within Nigeria’s political landscape.
The party subsequently called on Nigerians to rally behind the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that it possesses an array of capable leaders with the vision and experience needed to advance national development.