House of Representatives member, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) needs Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, more than Wike needs the party. Jibrin, a chieftain of the APC, made this statement on Arise News, emphasizing that Wike has worked significantly for the ruling party and must not be allowed to leave at this critical point.
Jibrin drew a comparison between Wike and President Bola Tinubu, noting that both possess similar qualities that make them relevant in politics. He mentioned that Tinubu maintained his relevance even after being out of office for 16 to 17 years, and Wike is expected to have a similar trajectory. According to Jibrin, Wike's potential departure from the APC would make him highly sought after by other political parties.
The Progressive Governors' Forum (PGF), led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, has expressed opposition to the Rainbow Coalition, which poses a threat to the governors and their candidates in the upcoming general elections. Jibrin advised the APC governors to negotiate with Wike, just as President Tinubu did, to prevent Wike from joining other parties like the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently published a list indicating that Wike's Rainbow Coalition has over 100 senatorial candidates and many more candidates for other positions. Jibrin stressed that the APC needs Wike's contributions, especially with the upcoming elections. He suggested that the governors should approach negotiations with Wike in a pragmatic manner, considering the peculiarities of each state.
Jibrin expressed his relationship with the governors is intact but criticized their approach of holding a press conference to criticize Wike. He believes that engaging in discussions with Wike would be a better strategy, as each state's case is unique. Jibrin emphasized his willingness to intervene if he perceives any action as a danger to the re-election of President Tinubu.
Wike's influence and potential impact on the APC have sparked reactions from various stakeholders. Some APC chieftains have defected to other parties, while others have expressed support for Wike's initiatives. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory has been a key player in Nigerian politics, and his decisions have significant implications for the country's political landscape.
The dynamics of Nigerian politics continue to evolve, with various factions and alliances emerging. The APC's strategy regarding Wike and the Rainbow Coalition will likely have a significant impact on the outcome of the upcoming elections. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the different political parties and leaders navigate the complex landscape.
Key points
- APC needs Wike more than Wike needs APC, according to Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin.
- Wike's departure from APC could make him highly sought after by other political parties.
- Jibrin advises APC governors to negotiate with Wike, citing President Tinubu's approach as a model.
