The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, addressed concerns surrounding his support for President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, asserting that he has not betrayed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Wike clarified that his stance was driven by the potential zoning of the presidential ticket to the North within the PDP.
He stated, “I stood firm and told Nigerians we wouldn’t support the PDP if the presidential ticket was zoned to the North.” According to him, this decision was rooted in his commitment to the unity of Rivers state.
During the New Year event, Wike highlighted his collaborative efforts with PDP leaders in visiting the National Vice Chairman (South-South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Victor Giadom. Wike’s objective, he stated, was to foster unity within the state, transcending party lines.
Addressing the accusations of betrayal, Wike asserted, “Some people said I betrayed PDP, but I never betrayed PDP. We stood firm and told Nigerians we wouldn’t do this if this was not done. So the issue of betrayal doesn’t arise.” Wike urged the people of Rivers State to prioritize the collective interest of the state over party affiliations. “Let’s move forward for the interest of the state. It may not be the best, but there is no option,” he added, referring to President Bola Tinubu’s decision.
Acknowledging the President’s past support, Wike noted, “Mr. President took a lot of risk to give me the position of Minister of FCT. People protested but he stood firm. If he could do that, you too should accept his decision.”
In conclusion, Wike emphasized the need for bipartisan support to propel the country forward. He called on both APC and PDP members to unite for the greater good, stating, “Whether you are APC or PDP or you don’t belong to any of the parties, we owe a duty to give Mr. President support to move this country forward.”
