According to Punch, Dr. Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has strongly addressed the rumors about the political allegiance of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. In a statement made in Abuja on Thursday, Okocha clarified that Wike remains a committed member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing widespread speculations that the former Rivers State governor had joined the ruling APC.
“Wike will never leave the PDP. He has always said that the PDP made him what he is. He has always said that he would remain there,” Okocha stated, stressing Wike’s loyalty to the opposition party, which he has consistently supported throughout his political career.
There had been reports suggesting that Wike, alongside 27 lawmakers from Rivers State, who are currently in conflict with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, had defected to the APC. However, Okocha was categorical in debunking these claims.
“People say Wike has decamped to the APC. They also say that the 27 lawmakers currently fighting with Fubara have defected to the APC. I need to make this clear to everyone. Much as I wish to have them in my fold, none of them has agreed to join us,” Okocha clarified.
He further explained that, despite efforts to bring the lawmakers into the APC, none had formally defected, as they had not followed the required procedure of registering in their wards. “To defect, they must go to their wards, register, and obtain their membership cards. None of them has done that,” Okocha added.
Okocha went on to acknowledge Wike’s significant influence in Rivers State politics, describing him as a powerful figure whose political presence would continue to shape the state’s future. “Wike has done so much for Rivers, so he is strong. In the next 10 years, Wike will continue to influence the political direction in Rivers. It will be difficult to uproot him,” he said.
Though Wike remains aligned with the PDP, Okocha highlighted his involvement in the Renewed Hope Agenda, a broader national political platform. “In Rivers, I am 001 in the APC, but in the Renewed Hope Agenda, I am 002. Wike is 001,” Okocha explained, emphasizing Wike’s ability to support causes beyond partisan politics.
In conclusion, Okocha described Wike as a politician who identifies with good causes that benefit his people, regardless of party affiliation. “Once the cause is good and will give him a platform to serve his people, Wike will be part of it,” he said.
Peoplesmind
