Tinubu Signals Openness To Wike Joining APC Amid Political Realignments
In a significant political overture, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly expressed his readiness to welcome the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, into the All Progressives Congress (APC), should he decide to switch political allegiance.
The declaration was made on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, during the commissioning of key infrastructural projects in Abuja, where President Tinubu commended Wike for his leadership and project delivery as Minister of the FCT. Despite Wike currently serving in Tinubu’s cabinet, he remains a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he previously served as Governor of Rivers State.
“We have somebody in Nyesom Wike. He is not a member of my party—at least not yet—but the day he changes his mind and registers with the progressives, we will welcome him warmly,” President Tinubu stated at the event.
The President made these remarks while inaugurating completed road projects executed under the FCT administration. These projects include the Maitama-Gishiri Bridge, Katampe Road, and critical link roads connecting Jahi and Mabushi districts, all of which aim to ease transportation and boost economic activities within the capital city.
The presence of Wike at the commissioning ceremony, coupled with Tinubu’s open invitation, has reignited speculation about the Minister’s political future. Though he has consistently denied reports of his defection to the APC, Wike has often been seen aligning with the policies and development agenda of the Tinubu administration, a move that continues to draw attention within Nigeria’s political circles.
President Tinubu used the occasion not only to laud Wike’s performance but also to reiterate his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development across the country. He emphasized that his government would not be deterred by political criticisms or opposition rhetoric in its pursuit of national transformation.
“We are determined to bring meaningful development to Nigerians regardless of political affiliations or distractions. Infrastructural growth is a key pillar of our Renewed Hope agenda, and we will not be swayed by noise from any corner,” Tinubu asserted.
Meanwhile, the political landscape within the PDP continues to experience internal tremors. In a related development, Segun Sowunmi, a long-standing member and chieftain of the PDP, has hinted at a possible departure from the party. Speaking during an appearance on Prime Time with Arise TV, the former Ogun State governorship aspirant suggested that if supporting President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections becomes necessary, he may be willing to part ways with his party of nearly three decades.
“I have been a member of the PDP for 28 unbroken years, but if I must support Tinubu in 2027, and that requires switching parties, then so be it,” Sowunmi stated.
His remarks reflect the fluid and often unpredictable nature of Nigerian politics, where party loyalty can shift in response to emerging political realities and strategic calculations.
As the 2027 election approaches, analysts expect more cross-party movements and strategic realignments. President Tinubu’s statement regarding Wike may be seen as both an invitation and a signal of the APC’s broader plan to consolidate power by attracting influential figures from across the political spectrum.
For now, all eyes remain on Nyesom Wike, whose next political move could significantly impact the dynamics between the ruling APC and the opposition PDP.
