PDP DISMISSES SPECULATION ON WIKE’S PERMANENT DEFECTION TO APC, CALLS HIM “VALUABLE ASSET“.(PHOTO).

 PDP Dismisses Speculation on Wike’s Permanent Defection to APC, Calls Him “Valuable Asset“

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly rejected suggestions that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, could permanently switch allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing him as one of the party’s most valuable political assets.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the PDP declared that it has no intention of relinquishing Wike, irrespective of any overtures or “luring attempts” from the APC.

The party’s reaction came after APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda (also referred to as Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda), publicly commended Wike’s performance and leadership while commissioning a major project in Abuja on Tuesday.

“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 statement read.

The PDP interpreted the APC chairman’s praise as validation of the quality of leaders within its ranks. “The commendation... is yet another public acknowledgment of the quality, competence, and leadership capacity that the PDP continues to offer Nigeria,” it added.

However, the party moved quickly to clarify Wike’s political standing. “It is necessary to clarify that Barrister Wike remains a committed and loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party,” the statement emphasised.

Using a football analogy, the PDP described Wike’s current service in the APC-led administration as a “loan arrangement” with no clause for permanent transfer. “We wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal,” it said.

The party stressed that Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister has not altered his political affiliation or loyalty to the PDP. It warned the APC against harbouring hopes of a permanent acquisition, vowing to resist any such move.

“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,” the statement declared.

The PDP highlighted Wike’s achievements in infrastructure development and urban renewal in the nation’s capital, noting that his performance has earned commendation across political, ethnic, and religious lines. It described his work as evidence of the “competence and leadership capacity” the party consistently produces in public office.

The party also viewed the APC chairman’s remarks as underscoring Wike’s continued political relevance and influence.

In its closing remarks, the PDP urged Nigerians to rally behind the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, asserting that it possesses capable leaders ready to drive national development.