The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has broken his silence regarding the party’s complex relationship with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Yilwatda clarified that while Wike remains a member of the opposition, the APC is “tolerating and accommodating” him based on a specific political understanding.
A Working Relationship, Not a Defection
During a press briefing following a meeting with APC stakeholders, Professor Yilwatda addressed the elephant in the room: Wike’s party status. He confirmed that the Minister has not formally defected to the APC. Instead, Wike is operating under a formal working agreement established between the ruling party and the PDP. According to the Chairman, Wike even secured written permission from the PDP leadership to serve in the current administration.
Tensions Over “Hijacking” the Party
The meeting was prompted by rising friction within the FCT wing of the APC. Foundation members have expressed growing anxiety that PDP defectors and allies of the Minister are attempting to hijack the party structure.
Yilwatda issued a stern warning to the “original” members:
- Stay Put: Do not abandon the house you built just because of pressure from newcomers.
- Hold Your Ground: Founding members must remain steadfast rather than defecting elsewhere.
Financing the Future: 2027 Strategy
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the Chairman revealed that the party has earmarked over N250 million for ward and state congresses within the Federal Capital Territory. He emphasized that this investment must be backed by unity, urging members to discard tribal, religious, and ethnic biases.
The Path to Harmony: Inclusivity
To avoid further internal strife, Prof. Yilwatda called for a more balanced approach to power-sharing. He advocated for:
- Shared Decision-Making: Ensuring a fair distribution of both elective and appointive roles.
- Diversity: Actively including all tribes to foster a sense of belonging.
- Tolerance: Building a party culture based on love and a shared commitment to winning.
