Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly rejected claims that Wike is engaging in anti-party activities.
Olayinka, speaking in defense of the former Rivers State governor, stated that Wike, in his role within President Bola Tinubu’s administration, is focused on Nigeria’s development and not on partisan politics. His comments came after accusations from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain Segun Sowunmi, who suggested that Wike was being used by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to destabilize the PDP.
“Wike is not working for APC; he is working for Nigeria,” Olayinka affirmed. “He is serving the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not any political party.”
The aide explained that Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister was a recognition of his competence and ability to deliver results, rather than a betrayal of his former party. Olayinka further clarified that Wike had informed the PDP of his decision to accept the ministerial position, and no objections were raised at that time.
He also addressed the distinction between the parliamentary and presidential systems of governance, noting that appointments in a presidential system are not exclusive to members of the ruling party. Olayinka pointed to figures like Daniel Bwala, who, despite being critical of President Tinubu, were still appointed to important positions in the administration.
“Politics had its time during the elections. That chapter ended last year. Now is the time for governance,” Olayinka emphasized.
Olayinka stressed that President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Wike as FCT Minister was based on his capabilities to make significant contributions to the country.
“Wike’s critics fail to understand that governance is about serving the people, not adhering to party lines,” Olayinka concluded, urging everyone to focus on the broader goal of national progress.
Leave a Reply