The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, Chief Austin Onyedebelu, has publicly criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, describing him as a threat to Nigeria's democracy. According to Onyedebelu, Wike's alleged membership in both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC simultaneously is unconstitutional. He stressed that there is no provision in the Electoral Act that allows for such dual membership.
Onyedebelu made these comments while addressing newsmen, emphasizing that Wike must choose between the two parties. He stated that if Wike wants to support President Bola Tinubu, he should join the APC. Onyedebelu accused Wike of using the Rainbow Coalition to revive the PDP and sustain his alleged presidential ambition. This move, according to Onyedebelu, is an attempt to undermine the APC and its leaders.
The Imo State APC chairman alleged that Wike's actions are driven by ulterior motives, which only visionary politicians like Governor Hope Uzodimma can decipher. Onyedebelu urged Wike to formally join the APC to integrate fully into the party. He emphasized that if Wike genuinely wants to secure President Tinubu's re-election in 2027, he would not hesitate to join the president's party.
A rift has emerged between the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF), led by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, and the Wike-led Rainbow Coalition. The coalition, according to Wike, is a channel to secure President Tinubu's second term. However, the Uzodimma-led group perceives the arrangement as capable of weakening the APC's influence. This disagreement has led to tensions between the two groups.
Eze Madumere, a former Deputy Governor of Imo State and PDP senatorial candidate for Imo East, responded to Onyedebelu's comments, describing Wike as an exceptional politician. Madumere said Wike's political approach reflects the beauty of democracy, as he has charted a course for those who believe in the Rainbow Coalition. According to Madumere, Wike has been consistent in declaring his support for Tinubu's presidency.
Madumere further stated that Wike made it clear from the outset that his political vision was to support Tinubu, a position he demonstrated through the G5 governors during the 2023 general elections. The PDP chieftain emphasized that in a democratic dispensation, everybody is free to ventilate and express their views. He believes that Wike's actions are a manifestation of this democratic freedom.
The disagreement between Onyedebelu and Wike reflects a deeper division within the Nigerian political landscape. While Onyedebelu sees Wike's actions as a threat to democracy, Madumere views them as a legitimate expression of political opinion. As the 2027 elections approach, it remains to be seen how this rift will affect the APC and the PDP.
Key points
- Imo APC Chairman criticizes FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike.
- Wike accused of threatening Nigeria's democracy.
- Rifts emerge between Progressives Governors Forum and Wike-led Rainbow Coalition.
