The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly declared that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, remains one of its most valuable political assets and is not available for any form of political transfer to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The opposition party made the declaration while reacting to recent remarks by APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who publicly acknowledged Wike’s contributions and performance in the APC-led administration during the commissioning of a major project in Abuja.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungundo Mohammed Haruna, the PDP said while it welcomed the recognition accorded to Wike by the APC chairman, the party had no intention of parting with the former Rivers State governor under any circumstance.
According to the PDP, Wike remains a committed and loyal member of the party despite serving in President Bola Tinubu’s administration as FCT Minister.
The party stressed that his role in the current government should not be interpreted as a signal of a possible political defection.
“The Peoples Democratic Party has noted with amusement the candid acknowledgment by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress of the remarkable contributions, exceptional leadership and outstanding performance of one of the PDP’s finest assets, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike,” the statement said.
The party argued that the commendation from the APC leadership further validates the quality of leadership and competence that the PDP continues to offer Nigerians.
‘Loan Arrangement, Not Permanent Transfer’
In a metaphorical reference to football transfers, the PDP described Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration as a “loan arrangement,” insisting that there is no clause permitting a permanent move.
“As Professor Yilwatda himself implied, Barrister Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration is best described as a loan arrangement, and we wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision for a permanent transfer,” the statement added.
The party further warned the APC against entertaining hopes of permanently acquiring the minister, stressing that any such move would be strongly resisted.
“The PDP is not in the business of disposing of its finest political talents. Barrister Nyesom Wike remains one of the party’s most valuable assets, and there are no plans, ongoing negotiations, hidden clauses, or future options that would permit a permanent move,” it stated.
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The opposition party also used the opportunity to commend Wike’s stewardship of the Federal Capital Territory, describing his tenure as transformative.
According to the PDP, the minister has earned widespread recognition for infrastructure development, urban renewal projects and efforts aimed at restoring public confidence in governance within the nation’s capital.
The party noted that his achievements have attracted commendation from citizens across political, ethnic and religious divides.
“There is no doubt that through his visionary leadership, commitment to service and delivery of numerous landmark projects, Barrister Wike has transformed critical aspects of the nation’s capital,” the statement said.
‘Proof of PDP’s Leadership Capacity’
The PDP argued that Wike’s performance serves as evidence of the quality of leadership available within its ranks and reaffirmed its belief that many of its members would excel if given similar opportunities in public office.
The party described Wike as one of the most influential and consequential political figures in contemporary Nigerian politics, citing his political relevance, administrative effectiveness and ability to deliver tangible results.
It also maintained that the PDP remains home to numerous capable leaders and technocrats capable of driving national development.
The party concluded by urging Nigerians to return the PDP to power in the 2027 general elections, arguing that the kind of development witnessed in the Federal Capital Territory under Wike could be replicated nationwide under a PDP-led government.
While thanking the APC National Chairman for recognising Wike’s achievements, the PDP said the commendation was ultimately an acknowledgment of the party’s enduring capacity to provide credible leadership and practical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.