APC vs Wike: Fresh Clash as Party Secretary Calls for Resignation

By Robo Bare

Abuja- A fresh political confrontation has erupted between the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following controversial remarks he made in Rivers State that have drawn sharp reactions from the ruling party.

The National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru, in a strongly worded statement on Monday, accused Wike of overstepping his bounds and using the influence of his federal office to interfere in the internal affairs of the party, despite not being a registered member of the APC.

What Triggered the Clash

The clash followed statements credited to Wike during a political gathering in Rivers State, where he reportedly dismissed the authority of certain APC leaders, questioned their relevance in the state, and warned that he would not allow “external forces” to dictate political structures in Rivers.

Wike also alleged that some APC figures were scrambling for a ₦600 billion Rivers State largesse, a comment that immediately sparked backlash within the party.

APC: Wike Has No Standing in Party Affairs

Responding, Basiru maintained that party records show Wike is not a member of the APC, and therefore has no locus standi to interfere in its affairs.

“As National Secretary of the APC, I am duty-bound to protect the interests of the party and its members. My comments on Rivers APC affairs cannot amount to interference,” Basiru said.

He reaffirmed the party’s position that sitting APC governors remain leaders of the party in their respective states, describing the principle as settled and non-negotiable.

Rejection of ₦600bn Allegation

Basiru dismissed Wike’s ₦600 billion claim as cheap blackmail, challenging the FCT Minister to provide evidence or face legal consequences.

He further condemned what he described as veiled threats, insisting that intimidation would not silence the APC leadership.

Support for Tinubu Not Equal to APC Membership

The APC scribe also clarified that Wike’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not automatically confer APC membership, noting that millions of Nigerians who support the President are not members of the ruling party.

According to him, Wike’s continued involvement in Rivers politics risks importing PDP-style politics into the APC.

Call for Resignation

In a firm conclusion, Basiru said it was improper for Wike to remain in the Federal Executive Council while allegedly fomenting division within the ruling party.

“The honourable thing to do is for him to resign his appointment as Minister,” he said.

Wider Political Implications

The escalating war of words underscores growing tension around Rivers State politics and raises questions about party discipline within an APC-led federal government, especially as political realignments intensify ahead of future elections.