Tony Okocha, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has expressed his belief that Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, will remain steadfast in his allegiance to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), labeling him an “ardent believer” of the party.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday in Abuja, Okocha clarified that Wike is not affiliated with the APC.
“Wike will not abandon the opposition party. He has consistently stated that the PDP is responsible for his political success, and he has reiterated his commitment to it,” Okocha remarked.
He emphasized, “Wike has made it clear that he will stay with the PDP. His dedication to the party is unwavering, and he is unlikely to depart from that faction.”
Additionally, Okocha addressed the ongoing political tensions involving the 27 lawmakers from Rivers who are currently in conflict with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, asserting that they also do not belong to the APC.
“There are claims circulating that Wike has defected to the APC, as well as allegations that the 27 lawmakers engaged in a conflict with Fubara have joined our ranks. I want to clarify that, while I would welcome them, none has committed to joining us,” he stated.
“I am in a position to know if they had made such a move, and it is evident that they have not. Their actions were merely political theatrics. I made attempts to persuade them to join us, but they have been indecisive and have not taken that step.”
Okocha further explained the process of defection, stating, “For them to officially defect, they must go to their local wards, register, and acquire their membership cards. None of them has done so.”
However, he acknowledged Wike’s association with the Renewed Hope Agenda. “In Rivers, I hold the position of 001 in the APC, but within the Renewed Hope Agenda, I am 002, while Wike is 001,” he noted.
He also discussed Wike’s significant influence over the political landscape in Rivers State, saying, “Wike has made substantial contributions to the state, which makes him a formidable figure. For the next decade, he will continue to shape the political landscape here.”
“It would be a challenge to displace him. He has implemented numerous projects throughout the state and has directly impacted people’s lives, ensuring that his supporters will always stand by him,” Okocha concluded.
