By Our Reporter
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing speculation about a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike’s declaration comes amid a power struggle within the Rivers State PDP chapter. Despite his recent appointment by President Bola Tinubu of the APC, Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, remains steadfast in his allegiance to the PDP.
During a live broadcast on Wednesday, marking his first year in office, Wike expressed his dedication to the PDP, even as he faces opposition from Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other party leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He vowed to address the injustices within the party and protect the rights of its members.
Clarifying his position, Wike stated that his appointment by President Tinubu was not an indication of his intent to leave the PDP. Instead, he described it as a recognition of his belief in Tinubu’s ability to tackle the nation’s challenges, which motivated his support for Tinubu’s presidential campaign in 2023.
“I will not leave PDP, even as the battles within the party at both the state and national levels intensify. I am committed to fighting for what is right and have no plans to join the APC. The task given to me by the president is my focus, and I am determined to see it through,” Wike said.
“I cannot stand by and watch the party I have served for years continue to perpetrate injustices against its members. This will not be tolerated.”
Wike’s remarks follow the PDP Board of Trustees’ endorsement of Governor Fubara amidst the ongoing conflict between Wike and his successor.
Addressing a separate issue, Wike criticized a revenue-sharing arrangement within the FCT, where a consultant retained 80% of the funds while the FCT administration received only 20%. He revealed that this scheme, brought to his attention by a senior advocate, had been siphoning government resources under the pretense of a legal operation.
“These are the kinds of issues we must tackle within the system. If not brought to our attention, such practices might go unnoticed,” Wike stated, highlighting the challenges of overseeing the vast FCT administration.
Recounting a specific incident, Wike described how he intervened after receiving a call about individuals attempting to seize cars under the guise of being from the Transport Secretariat. Upon investigation, he discovered that agreements had been made between the secretariat and certain consultants, allowing them to pocket the majority of the revenue.
Wike emphasized the illegality of such practices and vowed immediate action to dismantle the operation.
“This incident not only exposes a particular case of corruption but also underscores the need for vigilance in governance,” Wike concluded.
His swift response is anticipated to trigger a broader investigation into similar activities across the FCT, ensuring that government funds are safeguarded from exploitation.