The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed that he is working to undermine the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike described the accusation as unfounded and reiterated his commitment to the party despite backing President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has strongly denied allegations by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed that he is acting as an agent of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to destabilize the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Wike Dismisses Allegations as Baseless
Speaking to journalists during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja’s Jahi and Kuje districts, Wike described the accusation as “embarrassing” and lacking any factual basis.
He argued that similar claims had been made against him in the past by politicians who later defected to the APC, questioning the credibility of such allegations.
“These accusations are not new. Many who made them are now in the APC. So who is telling the truth?” Wike said.
Reaffirms PDP Membership, Backs Tinubu
Wike reiterated that he has no intention of leaving the PDP, even as he continues to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, his political stance has remained consistent since the 2022–2023 election cycle.
“I will not leave the PDP, but I will continue to support the President. I have been clear about this position,” he stated.
Accuses Bala Mohammed of Political Inconsistency
The FCT minister criticized Mohammed’s political record, alleging inconsistency in his alliances and positions.
Wike claimed that during the 2023 election period, the Bauchi governor privately sought his support for Tinubu while expressing opposition to former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar.
He further alleged that Mohammed later shifted alignment, raising questions about his credibility.
“He says one thing in the morning and another in the afternoon. Nigerians are watching,” Wike said.
Dispute Over PDP Internal Positions
Wike also addressed internal PDP tensions, including demands by Mohammed’s faction for the position of National Secretary.
He dismissed the request, arguing that it was unrealistic given what he described as the faction’s weakened position within the party.
“You cannot negotiate from a position of weakness and demand such a critical office,” he said.
PDP Convention Signals Party Strength
Despite ongoing internal disputes, Wike maintained that the PDP remains viable, pointing to the outcome of its recent convention as evidence of resilience.
He said predictions that the convention would fail had been proven wrong, adding that the party is still “alive and active.”
Bala Mohammed’s Counter-Accusations
Governor Mohammed had earlier accused Wike of political persecution during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme. He alleged that the FCT minister was orchestrating actions against him, including legal challenges linked to petitions submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Mohammed also criticized President Tinubu’s administration, describing Wike as a negative influence and accusing him of attempting to destabilize both the PDP and his political standing.
“He is not acting as a genuine PDP member. You cannot belong to two sides at once,” Mohammed said.
Ongoing Political Tensions
The exchange highlights deepening divisions within the PDP, as key figures continue to clash over loyalty, leadership, and alliances ahead of future political contests.
Analysts say the dispute reflects broader challenges within Nigeria’s opposition landscape, particularly as cross-party alignments and internal rivalries reshape political dynamics.