Dele Momodu Explains Wike’s Reluctance to Join APC

By: Bayero Ade

A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has shed light on why Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has not officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to Politics Nigeria, during an interview with Arise News on Thursday, Momodu stated that Wike’s hesitation is tied to his desire to maintain the power and influence he currently enjoys within the PDP. He explained that Wike is uncertain whether he could wield the same authority within the APC.

“If Wike were confident of retaining his power and influence in the APC, he would have defected long ago. His reluctance stems from knowing he may not enjoy the same level of control he currently has in the PDP,” Momodu said.

He attributed the PDP’s internal crisis to Wike’s loss to Atiku Abubakar during the party’s 2022 presidential primaries, which he claimed marked the beginning of ongoing tensions. “Wike’s defeat in the primaries and his unsuccessful bid for the vice-presidential slot led to divisions. Though he hasn’t physically left the PDP, his actions show he is politically aligned with the APC,” he added.

Momodu alleged that Wike’s current influence is bolstered by his relationship with the ruling APC, enabling him to empower allies and undermine the PDP. He accused the APC-led government of creating instability in opposition parties, including the Labour Party (LP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), to weaken them and establish dominance.

“Nigeria is moving dangerously toward a one-party system. The APC is orchestrating crises across opposition parties, including the PDP, LP, and NNPP, as part of a calculated effort to eliminate opposition,” Momodu alleged.

He criticized the government’s approach, stating, “This administration is using state power to stifle dissent. Wike wouldn’t have this level of influence without the ruling government’s backing. It’s troubling to see a civilian government making it so difficult for opposition to thrive.”

Momodu expressed his disappointment, calling the situation a threat to Nigeria’s democratic future.