The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has openly expressed admiration for Nyesom Wike, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), suggesting he would like to bring him into the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Yilwatda made the lighthearted remark during a public event in Abuja on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, praising Wike's work ethic and achievements as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Yilwatda Praises Wike's Performance as FCT Minister
Speaking at the official flag-off of the construction of Collector Road C01, from Nile University Area to Ring Road 3 in Abuja, Yilwatda described Wike as a "workaholic, tireless, ever-working" individual. He noted that he is "jealous" that Wike remains in the PDP and joked about "cornering" him to join the APC. However, he expressed gratitude that the PDP had "borrowed" Wike to the APC in 2023, referring to Wike's role in supporting President Bola Tinubu's election victory.
Yilwatda stated: "The workaholic, tireless, ever-working Nyesom Wike. I don't know when you sleep, Mr Minister. Your Excellency, you know I'm jealous that you are in PDP. I wish I can corner you and bring you to APC. But I'm happy that PDP borrowed you for us in 2023. I didn't know that it would lead to such remarkable feat by you, demonstrating the APC - what APC can do; some of the PDP members can also do it."
Wike's Role in 2023 Election and PDP Internal Crisis
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, was widely acknowledged for playing a pivotal role in helping the APC and President Tinubu secure power in the 2023 presidential election, despite being a member of the PDP. His actions deepened the internal crisis within the PDP, which has been embroiled in persistent internal strife characterized by deep factionalization, leadership disputes, and legal battles. Wike's defection to the ruling party's camp was seen as a major political realignment.
Since his appointment as FCT Minister in August 2023, Wike has embarked on an aggressive infrastructure development agenda, commissioning numerous projects across the capital territory. His performance has earned praise from APC leaders, including Yilwatda, who noted that Wike has demonstrated that PDP members can also deliver on APC's promises.
Wike Dismisses Fears of Project Abandonment Ahead of 2027
During the same event, Wike addressed concerns that infrastructure development in the FCT might slow down due to the approaching 2027 general election season. He insisted that the administration remains focused on completing ongoing projects, regardless of the electoral calendar. Wike stated: "Today is our 10th day of commissioning projects, but some people have asked whether projects will now be abandoned because elections are approaching. The answer is no. Elections or no elections, we must continue implementing the directive of Mr. President to transform the Federal Capital Territory."
He expressed confidence that Abuja's landscape would be significantly transformed before the end of Tinubu's first term in office, declaring: "By the time Mr. President finishes his first tenure on May 29, 2027, before he is sworn in for a second tenure, the landscape of Abuja would have entirely changed, by the grace of God."
Analysts Warn Wike May Face Political Setback
However, some political analysts have cautioned that Wike may be overplaying his hand. Professor Farooq Kperogi, a Nigerian journalism professor and public affairs analyst, warned that Wike risks being sidelined by the APC-led administration and could fall out with President Tinubu. In a recent column, Kperogi stated that the FCT minister may face a stunning political setback if he continues to align too closely with the ruling party while remaining a member of the PDP.
The APC chairman's remarks come amid ongoing speculation about possible defections ahead of the 2027 elections, with both major parties seeking to strengthen their positions. Wike's future political moves remain a subject of intense interest as the election cycle approaches.
