…Wike described Makinde’s accusation as unfair,
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday dismissed speculation about his political future, reaffirming his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while strongly criticising Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over claims of a covert agreement with President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during an end-of-year media briefing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Wike refuted Makinde’s assertion in Ibadan that he had pledged to deliver the PDP to Tinubu. Describing the claim as false, Wike insisted that no such discussion ever took place, noting that Makinde had never personally raised the issue with him.
He questioned the credibility of the allegation, asking why Makinde failed to brief the party if such a meeting had indeed occurred. According to Wike, there was no meeting where such a promise was made.
The FCT minister explained that the only post-2023 election interaction involving Makinde and other PDP leaders was a courtesy visit to President Tinubu. He said the delegation included former governors Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), alongside Makinde, with the President’s Chief of Staff also present.
He described Makinde’s accusation as unfair, suggesting it was borne out of frustration. He further questioned the governor’s political experience, noting that politics operates by rules distinct from corporate engagements.
Addressing rumours surrounding his continued membership of the PDP amid defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his role in the Tinubu administration, Wike maintained that he remains a PDP member. He stressed that his appointment as minister was based on competence rather than a change in party affiliation.
While acknowledging Makinde’s political ambitions, Wike advised that such aspirations must align with party regulations, urging the Oyo governor to learn from more seasoned political actors within the party.
