Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared his intention to lead the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign in Rivers State for the 2027 general elections, despite serving in the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government.
Wike made this known on Monday during a media parley in Abuja, where he addressed growing criticism regarding his loyalty to the PDP. He dismissed concerns raised by some party members, insisting that his contributions to the PDP are unparalleled and that his allegiance remains firm.
“I am still in PDP. I worked hard for the party,” Wike stated emphatically. “I have not seen anybody who has the guts to tell me, ‘Wike, you are not a member of the party.’ Who is that? What is his contribution to the party that is more than me?”
Reaffirming his political commitment, the former Rivers State governor said, “No one will take me from the party. I’m a member. In fact, I’ll lead the PDP campaign in Rivers by 2027.”
Wike’s remarks come amid growing tension within the PDP, with some accusing him of betrayal following his appointment as FCT Minister under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. However, Wike insisted his actions are in the interest of public service and do not undermine his party loyalty.
Addressing his performance as FCT Minister, Wike expressed pride in his efforts to transform Abuja, noting that his administration is taking bold steps that many of his predecessors avoided.
“People have said that FCT was not working; now it is working, which means I’m doing things they refused to do,” he said. “I found out that most of them didn’t have the courage to annoy people, to step on toes, but I take joy when I step on the toes of big men.”
Wike emphasized that he is not afraid of opposition from powerful interests, stating that his goal is to implement lasting reforms regardless of whose interests are threatened.
“All they want me to do is to make decisions against poor people saying nothing will happen to them, but I say something will happen. That is why we are making results,” he declared.
Wike’s comments signal a defiant stance amid internal party friction and underline his intention to remain a key player in both the PDP and national politics as the 2027 elections draw closer.
