APC Supporters Demand Wike’s Removal Accuse Him of Anti-Party Behaviour

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Pressure is mounting within sections of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as two support blocs have formally urged President Bola Tinubu to remove Nyesom Wike from his position as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The groups accuse the former Rivers State governor of conduct they believe undermines party cohesion and contradicts the principles of an APC-led administration.

Operating under the banners of the APC Leaders Forum (ALF) and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement (TSSM), the coalition conveyed its grievances in a public letter dated January 7, 2026. The correspondence, directed to the President through the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, was unveiled during a peaceful gathering at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja.

According to the signatories—Emeka Okoro, Adekunle Balogun, Ibrahim Yusuf, and Abdulkareem Isiaka—the protest was intended to defend party unity and reinforce the “Renewed Hope Agenda” championed by the current administration. They described themselves as loyal supporters determined to safeguard internal discipline ahead of future electoral contests.

Central to their complaint is the assertion that Wike, who is not formally registered as an APC member, has continued to challenge party leadership structures. The coalition claims his recent public remarks during a visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area in Rivers State were confrontational and dismissive of the APC’s national officers.

Particular concern was raised over comments allegedly directed at Senator Ajibola Basiru, the party’s National Secretary. The groups interpret Wike’s warning to political actors about interference in Rivers affairs as an act of intimidation and a direct challenge to party authority.

Beyond national leadership disputes, the coalition accused the minister of sustaining political hostilities against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. They argue that repeated criticisms and suggestions that Fubara’s election was a “mistake” risk destabilising the party’s structure in a strategically important state.

The petitioners further expressed unease over statements attributed to Wike implying that access to Rivers State could attract consequences. In their view, such remarks are incompatible with the authority of the President as Commander-in-Chief and could inflame tensions in the Niger Delta region.

Another issue highlighted in the letter is the allegation that Wike boasted of influencing two political parties simultaneously while holding federal office. The coalition described this as a troubling signal of divided loyalty and a potential conflict of interest.

Warning of possible electoral fallout, the groups cautioned that retaining Wike in the cabinet might fuel internal divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections. They announced plans to expand their demonstrations nationwide if their demand for his removal is not addressed.

Despite their criticism, the coalition reiterated unwavering support for President Tinubu and his re-election ambitions. They urged him to act decisively, arguing that party discipline and national stability must take precedence over individual influence.

Commentary and Political Context

This development reflects deeper tensions within the APC as alliances formed during previous electoral cycles continue to reshape internal dynamics. Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister was widely viewed as a strategic political move, bridging divides beyond traditional party lines. However, such cross-party relationships can generate friction among grassroots loyalists who prioritize ideological and structural consistency.

The unfolding dispute also underscores the delicate balance between political pragmatism and party orthodoxy. While broad coalitions may strengthen governance, they can simultaneously create internal suspicion about loyalty and long-term electoral positioning.

Ultimately, how President Tinubu navigates this controversy could influence party unity heading into 2027. Whether the issue results in reconciliation or escalation will likely determine its impact on APC stability and national political discourse.