Senator Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has responded strongly to remarks made by Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister. Basiru emphasized that Wike is not a member of the APC and therefore lacks the authority to comment on the party’s affairs.
“My attention has been drawn to the tirade of the Minister of the FCT against my person and my office as the National Secretary of the APC,” Basiru stated. “This is as regards my position that all members of the NWC must accord any sitting Governor his due respect and that the Governors remain the leaders of the Party in their States. It is shocking that such an innocuous statement can elicit such uncouth responses from no less than a member of the Federal Executive Council.”
Basiru asserted that Wike’s comments are misplaced, noting, “For the avoidance of doubt, our records indicate that Minister Nyesom Wike is not a member of our Party (APC) so he lacks the locus to dabble into the affairs of our Party.” He defended his role, stating that it is his responsibility to protect the interests of the APC and its members.
Addressing Wike’s allegations regarding a supposed N600 billion benefit, Basiru criticized the claim as “cheap blackmail” and challenged Wike to provide evidence, warning, “We may meet in court.”
Wike was also cautioned regarding his perceived threats. “Let me remind Wike that he is not God and may be overplaying his political card,” Basiru remarked. “My faith is in God and will not succumb to cheap threats such as the one from Wike.”
Furthermore, Basiru highlighted that Wike’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not grant him membership in the APC, stating, “Millions of non-APC Nigerians also support Mr. President and his own is no different.” He stressed that Wike’s attempts to create discord within the party would not be accepted.
In conclusion, Basiru advised Wike to reconsider his position, asserting, “The honourable thing to do is to resign his appointment as Minister.”
