Wike’s Alleged Move to APC Deepens as Rift With Tinubu Widens

Fresh tension is brewing within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as indications emerge that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, may defect to the ruling party amid a growing rift with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Political sources suggest that Wike and 27 Rivers State lawmakers loyal to him are preparing to formalize their defection on Friday, December 5, 2025.

The strained relationship reportedly worsened after President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, a move widely interpreted as a boost to Governor Siminalayi Fubara in his long-running political tussle with the former governor. The declaration, according to insiders, signaled diminishing presidential confidence in Wike’s influence and methods.

In an attempt to reaffirm loyalty, Wike allegedly instructed his allies in the Rivers State House of Assembly to pass a vote of confidence on the President. However, the gesture reportedly failed to sway Tinubu, whose advisers are said to have become increasingly uncomfortable with Wike’s confrontational political style and the controversies trailing him, including allegations of land grabbing and corruption.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has maintained that the 27 lawmakers aligned with Wike would lose their seats if they proceed with their defection, citing constitutional provisions.

Meanwhile, key APC stakeholders—particularly the Lagos APC Elders’ Council—have reportedly urged the President to reconsider his reliance on Wike and instead strengthen ties with Governor Fubara, whom they view as more stable and less politically combustible.

As political realignments gather momentum, analysts say Wike’s once formidable grip on power appears to be weakening, leaving his long-term political future uncertain.