By Clement Abayomi and Helen Okechukwu
The declaration by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the Peoples Democratic Party is “united” has ignited fresh controversy, with political stakeholders questioning his loyalty amid his closeness to President Bola Tinubu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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Wike’s remark, made against the backdrop of lingering internal crises within the PDP, has intensified debate over whether the former Rivers State governor remains committed to the opposition party or is tacitly backing the ruling All Progressives Congress and Tinubu’s re-election bid.
The debate gained momentum following the weekend conventions of both the PDP and APC, where new leadership structures emerged and signals of political realignments surfaced.
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Despite ongoing reconciliation moves within the PDP, the pro-Wike camp has continued to push for unity, urging aggrieved members to sheath their swords and work towards electoral success in 2027.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with New Daily Prime, the APC Ward 14 Chairman in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Maxwell Onuwa, dismissed concerns over Wike’s comments, describing his role in Tinubu’s government as a product of inclusive governance rather than partisan defection.
He said the FCT minister remains a dominant political figure in Rivers State, noting that his appointment by the President reflects a broader strategy to assemble capable hands across party lines.
Onuwa added that a cohesive PDP would ultimately benefit Nigeria’s democracy by providing a formidable opposition.
“It is good for democracy that they even put heads together and form a strong opposition,” he said.
When asked whether Wike’s position reflects genuine reconciliation within the PDP or political calculation, the APC chieftain declined to draw conclusions but acknowledged that the opposition party was making efforts to rebuild after internal strife.
He noted that the PDP appears to be reorganising at all levels in preparation for future elections.
On the potential impact of Wike’s stance on APC’s fortunes, Onuwa expressed confidence in the ruling party’s strength, insisting it remained unshaken by opposition dynamics.
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According to him, the APC continues to consolidate its structures nationwide, citing its growing influence and internal cohesion as key advantages heading into the next election cycle.
He said the party was not threatened by the PDP’s claims of unity and remained focused on delivering electoral victory.
On voter behaviour, the APC official stressed the importance of civic participation, urging Nigerians to actively engage in the electoral process regardless of political preferences.
He also called on eligible voters to participate in registration and revalidation exercises conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of 2027, Wike’s positioning within the PDP and his relationship with the APC-led Federal Government are expected to remain central to unfolding political calculations.
