Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has denied claims that he is the only member of the former Peoples Democratic Party G5 governors enjoying the favour of President Bola Tinubu. Wike made these remarks during a television programme, responding to questions about his relationship with President Tinubu and the political fate of the former G5 governors ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike recalled the process that led to his appointment as a minister, stating that he had consulted the PDP at various levels and received unanimous support from party stakeholders. He wrote to his governor, party officials at the state, zonal, and national levels, seeking their position on his potential appointment. According to Wike, all stakeholders agreed that his participation in the Federal Government would be beneficial.
The former Rivers State Governor listed the current positions and benefits received by other former G5 members under Tinubu. He mentioned that former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, is currently Nigeria's Ambassador to Spain, having received his letter of credence on September 14. Wike also cited former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who is now Nigeria's Ambassador to Greece.
Wike further stated that President Tinubu has extended support to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, providing 50 billion naira for the expansion of Oyo airport. In contrast, Wike noted that former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom is the only former G5 governor who has not taken up a position in the Tinubu administration, choosing instead to continue working for the President.
The G5 governors, comprising Wike, Ikpeazu, Ugwuanyi, Ortom, and Makinde, were central to the PDP's internal crisis ahead of the 2023 presidential election. They refused to support the party's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, unless then National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu stepped down. Since then, their political positions have diverged.
Wike's comments come amid renewed controversy over his Rainbow Coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. The former Rivers governor maintains that the coalition aims to mobilise support for Tinubu's re-election. However, APC governors have expressed concerns about political arrangements that could undermine the party and its candidates.
Wike's clarification on his relationship with Tinubu and the benefits received by other G5 governors may help alleviate tensions within the APC and the G5 group. The development could also have implications for the 2027 elections, as Wike and other stakeholders navigate Nigeria's complex political landscape.
Key points
- Wike denies exclusive favour from Tinubu, citing appointments of other G5 governors.
- Other G5 governors have received benefits under Tinubu, including ambassadorial appointments and funding for projects.
- Wike's comments come amid controversy over his Rainbow Coalition and its implications for the 2027 elections.
