PDP describes Wike as an invaluable treasure to the party, in response to APC

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The Peoples Democratic Party has dismissed suggestions that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, could permanently align with the ruling All Progressives Congress, insisting that he remains one of its most valuable political assets despite serving in the APC-led administration.

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PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, said in a statement on Wednesday that the party has no plans to relinquish one of its prized political figures, irrespective of any proposals or attempts to lure him away.

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The party’s position followed recent remarks by the National Chairman of the APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who publicly commended Wike’s performance and leadership while commissioning a project in Abuja on Tuesday.

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Reacting, the PDP said the praise amounted to an acknowledgment of the quality of leadership within its ranks and reaffirmed that the FCT minister remains an integral part of the party.

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The statement read, “The Peoples Democratic Party has noted with amusement the candid acknowledgment by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, of the remarkable contributions, exceptional leadership, and outstanding performance of one of the PDP’s finest assets, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, during the commissioning of a major project in Abuja.

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“The commendation by the APC National Chairman is yet another public acknowledgment of the quality, competence, and leadership capacity that the PDP continues to offer Nigeria. It also reinforces the fact that the PDP remains home to some of the country’s most accomplished and result-oriented leaders.

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“However, while we welcome the open admiration expressed by the APC National Chairman and the glowing accolades showered on our national leader, it is necessary to clarify that Barrister Wike remains a committed and loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

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“As Professor Yilwatda himself implied, Barrister Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration is best described as a loan arrangement, and we wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal.”

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The PDP maintained that Wike’s role in the APC-led Federal Government should not be interpreted as a sign of political defection, stressing that his appointment has neither changed his political affiliation nor diminished his loyalty, dedication and contributions to the party.

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It added, “We further wish to state that the PDP has no intention whatsoever of parting with one of its most valuable political assets, regardless of any offers or overtures that may be made. The APC is therefore advised to refrain from entertaining any hopes of a permanent acquisition, as such a move would be firmly resisted.

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“The PDP is not in the business of disposing of its finest political talents. Barrister Nyesom Wike remains one of the party’s most valuable assets and there are no plans, ongoing negotiations, hidden clauses, or future options that would permit a permanent move.

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“His service in the current APC-led administration should not be misconstrued as a possible political transfer. It does not in any way alter his political identity or diminish his longstanding loyalty, commitment, and immense contributions to the Peoples Democratic Party. The present leadership of the party fully acknowledges, appreciates, and remains grateful for his invaluable role in strengthening and advancing the PDP over the years.

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“It is not in doubt that, through his visionary leadership, commitment to service, and execution of numerous landmark projects, Barrister Wike has transformed critical aspects of the nation’s capital, earning commendation from citizens across political, ethnic and religious divides. The PDP is proud of his exceptional performance as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.”

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The PDP said Wike’s achievements in infrastructure development and urban renewal demonstrate the competence and leadership capacity the party has consistently produced in public office.

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It added that his performance as FCT minister is evidence of the PDP’s ability to deliver effective governance.

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The party also said the commendation from the APC national chairman underscores Wike’s political relevance and influence.

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It urged Nigerians to support the PDP in 2027, insisting that the party has many capable leaders ready to drive national development.

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