Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will lead President Bola Tinubu’s campaign in the 2027 presidential election, reaffirming his open support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) leader despite remaining a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, June 2, Wike made no attempt to hide his continued allegiance to President Tinubu, insisting he would be at the forefront of the president’s re-election efforts in Rivers State and beyond.
“I have told you this before, is it because I am in Asiwaju’s presidency?” he said.
“Are you not aware I will lead his campaign in Rivers State? You want me to say no?
“Are you not aware that he didn’t get up to 10 per cent here, FCT? But he will win here. Are you not aware?
“Stop asking me questions you know.
“Of course, you know. Is that hidden.
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“Because I have said the South must produce the president.”
Wike’s declaration adds a new layer of intrigue to Nigeria’s political landscape.
Though a prominent PDP chieftain, Wike has become one of Tinubu’s most visible supporters since the 2023 general election, during which he openly campaigned against his party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
This alliance has deepened the internal crisis within the PDP, which is still reeling from the 2023 defeat and has struggled to reconcile with Wike and other members of the G5 Governors, a group of aggrieved party leaders who opposed Atiku’s candidacy.
Wike’s appointment to Tinubu’s cabinet in 2023 as FCT Minister further cemented the perception that he had abandoned the PDP in all but name.
His continued defiance of party lines has triggered calls from within the PDP for disciplinary action, though none has materialised.
Observers believe Wike’s latest comment not only confirms his political alignment with the APC but also signals his readiness to play a central role in Tinubu’s 2027 bid, even while officially retaining PDP membership.