Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations that he promised President Bola Tinubu to weaken the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 presidential election, describing the claim as false and politically driven.
Wike spoke on Monday during an end-of-year media briefing, responding to recent comments by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who alleged that the former Rivers State governor offered to “hold down” the PDP to aid Tinubu’s re-election. The FCT minister denied the allegation, insisting no such commitment was ever made.
According to Wike, the claim was unfounded and reflective of political frustration. He questioned the logic behind the allegation and maintained that no meeting ever took place where such a promise could have been made.
He explained that after the 2023 general elections, he, Makinde, and former governors Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi paid a courtesy visit to President Tinubu to discuss post-election issues, with the Chief of Staff present. Wike said the meeting was transparent and lacked any political bargaining.
“There was nothing like a secret meeting or any discussion about suppressing the PDP,” Wike stated, stressing that the allegation was unfair and misleading.
He further criticised Makinde’s statement, attributing it to political inexperience and frustration. Wike noted that politics operates on established norms and agreements, adding that ambition must be pursued within defined political structures.
Addressing political loyalty, Wike warned that publicly aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or pledging support for President Tinubu does not automatically translate into political rewards. He said relevance in politics is earned through commitment, structure, and consistency.
During engagements in Emohua and Isiokpo local government areas of Rivers State, Wike cautioned politicians against entering agreements they cannot honour, emphasising the importance of integrity in political dealings.
The minister also spoke on recent political developments in Rivers State, warning against opportunism linked to state resources. He referenced comments by Governor Siminalayi Fubara regarding funds in the state’s coffers, suggesting that such disclosures could attract undue political interests.
Wike maintained that political decisions should be guided by discipline, loyalty, and respect for agreements, rather than opportunism, reiterating that he has never made promises he could not keep.
