The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Dr. Tony Okocha, has refuted claims that the current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and 27 lawmakers from Rivers State, involved in a political dispute with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, have joined the APC.
Addressing the media in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Okocha made it clear that despite rumors circulating about Wike and the lawmakers defecting to the APC, none of them has officially become members of the party.
“People have been saying that Wike has decamped to the APC, and also that the 27 lawmakers engaged in a political conflict with Fubara have defected. Let me set the record straight: much as I would like to have them in the party, none of them has joined us,” Okocha stated. “I would know if they had joined, but they have not. Their actions were simply a political tactic.”
Okocha explained that for anyone to officially join the APC, they would need to register at their ward level and obtain a membership card. He emphasized that none of the 27 lawmakers or Wike has completed this process.
Specifically addressing Wike’s position, Okocha confidently stated that the former Rivers governor remains loyal to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
“Wike will never leave the PDP,” Okocha declared. “He has always maintained that the PDP made him who he is today, and he’s a firm believer in the party. I don’t see him leaving that fold.”
While denying Wike’s affiliation with the APC, Okocha acknowledged the minister’s involvement in the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aligns with certain national development goals. He also spoke about Wike’s enduring political influence in Rivers State.
“Wike has done a lot for Rivers State, and his impact will be felt for the next decade. His numerous projects and the direct impact he’s had on people’s lives make him a powerful figure in the state’s politics,” Okocha said. “It will be difficult to diminish his influence.”
Okocha further described Wike as a pragmatic politician who aligns himself with initiatives that benefit his people, regardless of political affiliation. “If a cause is good and provides a platform to serve his people, Wike will always be part of it,” Okocha added.
