APC Leaders May Force Tinubu to Choose Between Party and Wike

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Reports indicate rising friction within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as top party officials appear concerned over FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s political activities in Rivers State. Sources suggest these actions are increasingly perceived as undermining party cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.

An insider from the APC National Working Committee (NWC), speaking on condition of anonymity, warned that President Bola Tinubu might soon face a difficult choice. According to the source, “We may ask the President to choose between us and his FCT minister if Wike continues to behave as if only he can advance the President’s interests in Rivers State or anywhere else. He is not a member of this party.”

The warning stems from Wike’s recent declaration that Governor Siminalayi Fubara would not secure a second term in 2027, a statement that has sparked criticism from party loyalists in the oil-rich state. Strategists argue that allowing a non-registered APC minister to challenge the party’s local leadership could jeopardize the President’s political agenda.

Olafeso Highlights Wike’s Political Isolation

Political analyst and former PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Eddy Olafeso, described Wike’s situation as a consequence of being politically outpaced by Fubara, who rapidly aligned himself with the APC before Wike could react.

In his assessment, Olafeso noted, “Wike is probably the most unfortunate politician in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Governor Fubara moved faster politically by joining the APC, leaving Wike on the sidelines.”

He further explained that some party leaders have effectively endorsed Fubara as the recognized APC leader in Rivers State, even before Wike formally considered joining the party. “Some party leaders are even calling for his removal as minister,” Olafeso added.

Implications for APC Unity

Party insiders fear that the ongoing discord could force a critical decision from the presidency. Allowing Wike’s statements and political maneuvering to go unchecked might signal a tolerance for factionalism, potentially weakening APC’s strategic position in Rivers State ahead of 2027.

Observers suggest that this scenario underscores the tension between federal ministerial authority and local party loyalty, highlighting the challenges the APC faces in maintaining unified control over key states.