The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed suggestions that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, may permanently defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the former Rivers State governor remains one of its most valued political figures.
The opposition party maintained that Wike’s role in the APC-led Federal Government does not amount to a political realignment and reaffirmed that he remains a committed member of the PDP.
The position follows recent remarks by APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who publicly commended Wike’s leadership and performance during a project commissioning ceremony in Abuja.
Reacting in a statement issued on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, described the APC chairman’s comments as recognition of the leadership capacity and quality associated with the PDP.
According to the party, the commendation reinforces the argument that the PDP continues to produce experienced and result-driven leaders.
“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 statement read.
The PDP further clarified that Wike’s appointment into the current administration should not be interpreted as a permanent political movement.
“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 stated.
The party insisted that there are no discussions, arrangements or conditions that would permit Wike to permanently join the APC.
“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 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,” the statement added.
The PDP maintained that Wike’s service in government does not alter his political identity or longstanding relationship with the opposition party.
The party also commended the minister’s performance in office, noting that his administration in the FCT has attracted attention across political and social divides due to infrastructure and urban renewal initiatives.
According to the PDP, Wike’s performance reflects the governance capacity and leadership qualities the party continues to project at national level.
The opposition party further urged Nigerians to support its platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence in its ability to provide effective governance and national development.
