Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has commended the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for “allowing” Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to serve in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The senator likened Wike’s appointment to a rival football team gaining a star player without paying a transfer fee.
Oshiomhole made the remarks during a New Year luncheon hosted by Wike in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, on Friday. The event, which drew key political figures, highlighted Wike’s contributions to national development and his controversial political pivot during the 2023 presidential election.
Wike, a prominent PDP stalwart, broke ranks with his party during the last general election to support Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, following a fallout with the PDP leadership. His decision led to his subsequent inclusion in Tinubu’s cabinet as FCT minister, a move that Oshiomhole described as a strategic win for the APC.
“Thank you to the PDP for giving us Nyesom Wike to help us fix Abuja,” Oshiomhole said during the luncheon. “It’s like in football when a club loses its best player to a rival team, usually at a significant cost. But in this case, PDP Rivers handed Wike to us without a transfer fee. We may not be inclined to return him, and if we must, we might even set up a toll gate to delay it.”
Oshiomhole praised Wike’s performance as FCT minister, emphasizing his commitment to enforcing the rule of law and environmental regulations in Abuja. According to him, Wike’s efforts demonstrate the tough decisions required to bring meaningful change to the capital city.
“Tonight, we celebrate a Nigerian who is adding value to the FCT. He is showing that there must be respect for environmental laws and adherence to the rule of law,” Oshiomhole said. “Leadership sometimes involves stepping on toes, and Wike has demonstrated the courage to do so in Abuja.”
The luncheon also served as a platform for bipartisan dialogue, underscoring Wike’s influence and political versatility. Oshiomhole’s remarks highlighted the intricate dynamics of Nigerian politics, where alliances often transcend party lines.
With Wike’s growing prominence as FCT minister, his role in shaping Abuja’s development has drawn attention nationwide, sparking conversations about political collaboration and governance in Tinubu’s administration.
