Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended his recent visit to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, insisting that he does not believe in what he described as “politics of enmity”.
Wike made the clarification while speaking to journalists on Wednesday during an inspection of ongoing road construction projects in Karu, Apo-Karshi and Kubwa within the Federal Capital Territory.
The former Rivers State governor explained that the visit to the APC chairman was purely personal and should not be interpreted as a political alliance or secret meeting.
According to him, politicians from different political parties should not be expected to avoid each other simply because of partisan differences.
“We’re all colleagues before he left for the chairmanship of APC. So what I should do anytime I see him is to hide? Anytime he sees me, he should run away so people will not say something?” Wike asked.
The minister criticised the public reaction surrounding the visit, arguing that not every interaction between politicians should become a subject of political speculation.
He questioned why his private movement or social engagements should require public explanation, stressing that individuals are free to maintain relationships regardless of party affiliation.
Wike further disclosed that his visit to Yilwatda’s residence came after the APC chairman had reportedly made several unsuccessful attempts to meet him officially at his office.
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According to the minister, his demanding schedule often limits the number of appointments he can attend to, prompting him to personally visit the APC chairman at home instead.
He maintained that the meeting was based on mutual respect and long-standing acquaintance rather than political calculation.
The FCT minister also emphasised that his primary concern remains the delivery of projects and responsibilities entrusted to him by President Bola Tinubu.
During the inspection exercise, Wike reiterated the importance of ensuring the timely completion of road infrastructure projects across the FCT, noting that development and service delivery remain his major priorities.
“What’s important to me is what I’m doing for my people,” he said, adding that performance in office matters more than public speculation or political interpretations.
The remarks have sparked fresh political discussions, especially given Wike’s position as a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while serving in the administration of an APC-led federal government.
Observers believe the visit and Wike’s comments may continue to generate debate over political alliances, bipartisan relationships and the evolving dynamics within Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
