The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed suggestions that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, may permanently align with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that he remains one of its most valuable political assets despite serving in the APC-led Federal Government.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said the party has no intention of relinquishing one of its foremost leaders, regardless of any attempts to lure him away.
The statement was in response to recent remarks by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who praised Wike’s leadership and performance while commissioning a project in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to the PDP, the commendation from the APC chairman serves as further recognition of the quality of leadership within the opposition party and underscores its continued relevance in producing capable public office holders.
“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, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike,” the statement said.
The party added that the APC chairman’s praise reinforces the fact that the PDP remains home to some of Nigeria’s most accomplished and result-oriented leaders.
While welcoming the commendation, the PDP stressed that Wike remains a loyal and committed member of the party.
Referring to Yilwatda’s comments, the party described Wike’s role in the APC-led administration as a “loan arrangement,” insisting that there is no provision for a permanent political 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,” the statement added.
The PDP maintained that Wike’s appointment in the current administration should not be interpreted as a sign of defection, noting that it has neither altered his political identity nor diminished his loyalty and contributions to the party.
The party further stated that it has no plans to part with one of its most influential political figures, regardless of any offers or overtures that may emerge.
According to the PDP, Wike’s achievements in infrastructure development and urban renewal in the Federal Capital Territory have earned him widespread commendation across political, ethnic, and religious divides.
It argued that his performance as FCT minister reflects the competence and leadership capacity that the PDP has consistently produced in public office.
The party also described the APC chairman’s praise as evidence of Wike’s enduring political relevance and influence, urging Nigerians to support the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It maintained that the party remains well-positioned to provide effective leadership, with a pool of experienced and capable leaders committed to driving national development.
