Wike Will Never Leave PDP, Says APC Rivers Chairman

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Dr. Tony Okocha, has clarified that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, remains a loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and has no intention of joining the APC.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Okocha dismissed rumors of Wike’s defection to the ruling party, emphasizing that Wike’s loyalty to the PDP is unwavering.

“Wike has consistently said that the PDP made him who he is today, and he has pledged to remain with the party,” Okocha stated. “He is a staunch believer in the PDP and is unlikely to leave that group.”

Okocha also addressed speculation regarding the 27 Rivers State lawmakers currently embroiled in a political battle with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He denied claims that the lawmakers had defected to the APC, asserting that none of them are members of the party.

“People have been saying that Wike and the 27 lawmakers have joined the APC. As much as I would love to have them in our ranks, I can confirm that none of them has officially joined us,” he explained. “To switch parties, they would need to register at their wards and obtain membership cards, and none of them has done so.”

However, Okocha highlighted Wike’s prominent role in the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and acknowledged the former governor’s lasting influence on Rivers politics.

“In Rivers, I am APC 001, but in the Renewed Hope Agenda, Wike is 001, and I am 002,” Okocha remarked, praising Wike’s impact on the state.

“Wike has achieved so much for Rivers State and will remain a strong political figure for the next decade. His numerous projects and direct influence on the lives of many people in the state ensure that he will continue to enjoy widespread support.”

Okocha also described Wike as a politician willing to support any cause that benefits the people, regardless of political affiliation. “As long as the cause is good and provides a platform to serve his people, Wike will be part of it,” he concluded.