The political disagreement between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State has intensified following the party’s description of the minister as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the accusation, insisting that those attempting to restrict political participation and narrow the country’s political space pose a greater threat to democracy.
The party’s Publicity Secretary, Lancelot Obiaku, stated this while reacting to comments by the Imo APC Chairman, Austin Onyedebelu, who criticised Wike’s political activities and his involvement in the Rainbow Coalition.
Obiaku maintained that democracy should allow citizens to make political choices based on credibility and acceptability, arguing that political parties and their supporters should be free to operate without unnecessary restrictions.
He said the PDP remained committed to democratic principles and would continue to support political participation across the country.
The party spokesman also aligned the Imo PDP’s position with Wike’s declaration of support for President Bola Tinubu, despite the minister’s continued membership of the PDP.
According to Obiaku, the party has presented candidates for other elective positions and is focused on campaigning for them ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He expressed confidence in the party’s candidates, describing them as credible contenders, while insisting that the Rainbow Coalition would remain active in the political landscape.
The disagreement follows Onyedebelu’s criticism of Wike’s decision to support Tinubu while remaining in the PDP. The APC chairman argued that the minister should formally join the ruling party if he intended to work for the President’s re-election.
Wike’s political alliance has generated disagreement within the APC, with concerns raised by some party figures about the implications of the Rainbow Coalition for the ruling party’s political organisation ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, the Imo PDP has maintained that Wike’s position is consistent with his publicly stated support for Tinubu and that political differences should be addressed within the democratic process.
