.Blasts Fubara
Favour Ishember, Abuja
Federal Capital Territory Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has clarified his position within Nigeria’s polarized party system, affirming that he remains a bona fide member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) despite serving in an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration.
Wike revealed that he had informed all relevant PDP organs before accepting the ministerial appointment, countering accusations of disloyalty.
“I wrote to all PDP’s party organs before taking up the job of serving as Minister under APC,” he said, countering accusations of disloyalty.
During a monthly media chat in Abuja, Wike tackled critics and addressed his strained relationship with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He emphasized that leadership requires making tough decisions that may not be popular with everyone. “I am not bothered about insults and name-calling; those abusing me today were praising me yesterday,” he said.
Wike assured the media that ongoing infrastructure projects in the FCT are on track, with completion timelines dependent on available funding.
He also disclosed that a committee has been set up to review the allocation of 16% of Area Councils’ monthly funds to pay primary school teachers, a move aimed at stabilizing basic education in the territory.
The Minister praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for showing greater inclusion toward Abuja’s original inhabitants.
“Although the FCT Administration tries not to indigenize appointments, Tinubu has given hope to the indigenes,” he stated.
Wike accused the PDP of breaching internal agreements, citing the case of Senator Sam Anyanwu, who was supposed to be the party’s National Secretary according to a Supreme Court ruling.
He clarified that the G5 governors had agreed on Anyanwu’s appointment, but the party reneged.
“The G5 had agreed that Sam Anyanwu, in accordance with Supreme Court ruling, should be PDP’s National Secretary, but the party reneged.”
The Minister reignited his simmering crisis with Governor Fubara, stating that Fubara had allowed himself to be used as a tool by Wike’s enemies and had not made genuine efforts towards reconciliation.
“I have no issues with Fubara,” he said at first, but then added, “Fubara allowed himself to be used as a tool by my enemies to fight me. He has not made any genuine effort for reconciliation.”
He also clashed with former Minister Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of lying about being “hungry” and only seeking power.
The media chat showcased Wike’s trademark defiance and political bravado, which is expected to trigger ripples across both APC and PDP camps as the 2027 elections approach.
Wike’s comments have raised questions about his true political direction, but one thing is certain: his voice and actions remain impossible to ignore.
