ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signaled his readiness to formally receive Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, into the All Progressives Congress (APC), should the former Rivers State governor decide to defect from the opposition.
Speaking on Tuesday during the commissioning of Arterial Road N16 and other infrastructure projects in the Katampe District of Abuja, Tinubu praised Wike’s performance in office and joked about welcoming him into the APC fold.
“We have somebody—Nyesom Wike—he is not a member of my party (APC), not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the progressives, we will welcome him,” Tinubu said to applause. “Because we will enjoy singing, ‘as e dey pain dem, e dey sweet us,’” he added, referencing a phrase popularized by Wike during political campaigns.
The comment, delivered in a light-hearted tone, comes amid ongoing political tensions and growing speculation over Wike’s shifting allegiances following his support for Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election despite being a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Wike, a polarizing figure in Nigerian politics, has held significant sway in both his party and federal governance since assuming the FCT portfolio, fueling debates about his long-term political intentions. His close relationship with Tinubu has continued to stir controversy within the PDP, with many accusing him of undermining the party from within.
President Tinubu’s remarks are expected to intensify those conversations, particularly as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape.
