“We May Recruit Wike” – APC Chairman Teases PDP, Hails FCT Minister’s Performance

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), , has humorously expressed his desire to “poach” the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), , from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the ruling APC, citing the minister’s impressive performance and commitment to service.

Yilwatda made the remarks on Monday during the official flag-off ceremony for the construction of Collector Road CO1, stretching from the Nile University area to Ring Road III, as well as the extension of the Body of Benchers Road in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the APC chairman commended Wike’s dedication to infrastructure development in the Federal Capital Territory, describing him as a hardworking, tireless, and result-oriented public servant whose efforts have significantly transformed the nation’s capital.

“The workaholic, ever-working and tireless minister, and I don’t know when you sleep,” Yilwatda remarked while acknowledging Wike’s contributions to the ongoing development projects within the FCT.

In a light-hearted comment that drew attention from attendees, Yilwatda openly admitted that he was envious of the PDP for having Wike among its ranks.

“The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, you know that I’m jealous that you are in the PDP. I wish I could corner you and bring you to the APC,” he said.

The APC national chairman further referenced Wike’s role during the 2023 presidential election, during which the former Rivers State governor publicly supported President despite remaining a member of the PDP.

According to Yilwatda, the opposition party had effectively “loaned” Wike to the APC during the election period, a move he suggested ultimately benefited the ruling party and the nation.

“But I’m happy that PDP borrowed you to us in 2023. I saw your letter then to the National Working Committee of PDP borrowing you to us,” he joked.

He went on to praise Wike’s achievements as FCT Minister, noting that his performance demonstrates that competent leadership and effective governance can transcend party affiliations.

“I don’t know that it would lead to such a remarkable feat by you, that what APC can do, some of the PDP members can also do it,” Yilwatda added.

Since his appointment as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in August 2023, Wike has maintained a close working relationship with the administration of President Tinubu, spearheading several infrastructure and urban renewal projects across Abuja.

However, his active role in the APC-led Federal Government has continued to spark debate within the PDP, with some members of the opposition party accusing him of working contrary to the party’s interests. Despite the criticisms, Wike has consistently defended his collaboration with the Federal Government, insisting that governance and national development should take precedence over partisan politics.

The latest remarks by the APC chairman have once again highlighted Wike’s unique position in Nigeria’s political landscape, where his influence continues to transcend traditional party boundaries while fueling conversations about loyalty, governance, and political cooperation.