Wike affirms loyalty to PDP, dismisses defection rumors

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has categorically denied rumors of defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike’s declaration comes amidst a heated battle for control of the Rivers state PDP chapter, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other party leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, opposing him.

Despite facing opposition, Wike vowed to fight for justice and protect members’ rights within the party, stating, “I will not leave PDP, even when the fight gets tougher. I will fight to the last.”

Wike clarified that his appointment by President Bola Tinubu was not a precursor to defecting, but rather a testament to his belief in Tinubu’s ability to address Nigeria’s challenges, which motivated his support for the president’s candidacy in 2023.

“I am focused on achieving the task before me and will not fold my arms and allow injustice to prevail in the party I have suffered for,” Wike emphasized.

This development comes a day after the PDP Board of Trustees declared support for Fubara, escalating the face-off between Wike and his successor.