Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has officially dismissed media reports claiming he was lobbying to become the Director-General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general elections. The denial was conveyed through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, who described the reports as entirely false.
Wike's Spokesman Dismisses Reports
According to Olayinka, Wike has never discussed his membership or any leadership role in the Presidential Campaign Council with anyone. The minister's stance is clear: his commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election does not hinge on holding any formal position within the campaign structure.
The reports, which surfaced in some Nigerian media outlets, had listed Wike among senior party officials and government figures allegedly being considered for or actively seeking the DG post. However, Olayinka urged Nigerians to disregard such claims, emphasizing that they are baseless.
Wike's Commitment to Tinubu
Wike reiterated that he does not need the DG title or even an ordinary membership in the campaign council to deliver a strong result for President Tinubu in both Rivers State and the FCT. This statement underscores his unwavering support for Tinubu since defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following the 2023 elections.
His administration of the FCT has been closely monitored as a signal of his political standing within the ruling party. The minister's office provided no further details about the origin of the reports or which publications carried the claims.
Background and Political Context
Wike's defection to the APC was a significant political shift, and his support for Tinubu has been vocal. The denial comes amid speculations about the composition of the campaign council ahead of the 2027 elections, with various names being floated for key positions.
Observers note that Wike's role in delivering votes in Rivers State and the FCT could be crucial for Tinubu's re-election bid. However, the minister insists that his loyalty is not tied to any official appointment.
As the political landscape evolves, this denial serves to clarify Wike's position and quell rumors that could distract from the administration's focus on governance and development.
