By John Umeh
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended a warm and open invitation to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urging him to formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC) whenever he decides the time is right. The remark, made during a public appearance in Abuja, is being widely interpreted as a fresh attempt to woo the influential former Rivers State governor into the ruling party’s fold.
The President’s comments come amid ongoing political speculation over Wike’s next political move, especially given his strategic role in the 2023 general elections and his current position in an APC-led federal cabinet—despite being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A Strategic Friendship on Display
Speaking at a commissioning ceremony of a key infrastructure project in the FCT, President Tinubu praised Wike’s performance in office and described him as a “performer and a committed patriot.” He went on to publicly extend a symbolic hand of fellowship, saying:
“We will welcome you to APC whenever you decide. You are already working with us. Join us fully and continue your good work with peace of mind.”
The comment was met with applause from the crowd and smiles from Wike, who responded with a modest nod but stopped short of giving a definite reply. Observers say the exchange once again highlights the deepening relationship between Tinubu and Wike, which has puzzled political analysts and divided opinion among party loyalists on both sides.
Wike’s Political Position: PDP or APC?
Nyesom Wike, a heavyweight in Nigeria’s political landscape, served two terms as governor of Rivers State under the PDP banner and was one of the most vocal critics of the APC during his time in office. However, since the conclusion of the 2023 elections—where he was seen to have played a behind-the-scenes role in Tinubu’s victory—Wike’s alignment has increasingly tilted toward the ruling party.
Although he has not formally renounced his PDP membership, Wike’s acceptance of a ministerial position in Tinubu’s cabinet and his repeated praise of the president’s leadership have raised eyebrows within the PDP, where some now regard him as a defector in all but name.
Political watchers say Tinubu’s invitation may be a step toward formalizing what already appears to be an ongoing political transition for Wike.
Mixed Reactions Trail Tinubu’s Comment
President Tinubu’s public overture has triggered a flurry of reactions across the political spectrum. While APC loyalists welcomed the possibility of Wike’s formal defection, many PDP stakeholders have condemned the president’s remarks, calling them a deliberate attempt to weaken the opposition.
A PDP youth leader in Rivers State, speaking under anonymity, expressed dismay:
“Wike is no longer acting like a PDP member. If he wants to join APC, he should do it openly. This double play is hurting the party’s cohesion and confusing the grassroots.”
On the other hand, APC insiders have hailed Wike’s inclusion in the federal cabinet and the president’s latest remarks as politically astute.
“Wike has always been a man of action, and his record as FCT Minister shows that he delivers. He would be an asset to any political platform,” said a senior APC official.
2027 and the Bigger Picture
Beyond party politics, many believe Tinubu’s comment is a strategic move with the 2027 elections in mind. With his eyes set on re-election, President Tinubu may be quietly building a broad, bipartisan coalition that includes strong regional figures like Wike, whose influence in the South-South remains significant.
Wike, for his part, continues to keep political analysts guessing. Though he has repeatedly claimed to be committed to the PDP, his actions often suggest otherwise. His silence in the wake of the president’s latest comments has only intensified speculation.
Conclusion
President Tinubu’s invitation to Wike is more than a casual remark—it is a calculated political signal aimed at consolidating power, realigning loyalties, and perhaps reshaping the country’s political map ahead of future contests.
Whether Wike will accept the invitation formally or continue to play the balancing act between the PDP and APC remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the courtship between Tinubu and Wike is far from over, and Nigeria’s political watchers will be following every move closely.
