FCT Minister Nyesom Wike accuses Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde of fueling the PDP crisis, warning against opportunism ahead of 2027 elections
The political rift between Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde deepened on Monday, with the former accusing the latter of masterminding the prolonged crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Also read: National Grassroots Movement condemns plot against Akpabio
Wike, leader of a PDP faction, made the remarks during an end-of-year media chat at his Port Harcourt residence, dismissing claims by Makinde that he had pledged to “hold the PDP down” for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
“That’s a blatant lie,” Wike said, insisting that a meeting with President Tinubu alongside Makinde, former governors Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi was routine and did not involve any political arrangement.
He criticised Makinde for his handling of the party, accusing him of masterminding the removal of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as PDP National Secretary and causing legal disputes that deepened internal divisions.
Wike also highlighted his role in facilitating Makinde’s 2019 governorship victory, arguing that the governor should be grateful for the party structure he inherited.
He dismissed Makinde’s claim of having earned $1 million in a previous contract, contrasting it with his own political trajectory.
The FCT minister warned that increased financial resources among governors following fuel subsidy removal could cloud judgment and urged politicians to avoid opportunism.
He also cautioned Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to honour the peace accord and maintain constructive relationships with lawmakers.
Wike reaffirmed his alignment with President Tinubu and stressed that political power is earned and defended through credibility, consistency, and grassroots trust.
Also read: National Grassroots Movement condemns plot against Akpabio
In response, the Tanimu Turaki-led PDP faction accused Wike of fearing a loss of influence and becoming frustrated with the party’s national leadership.
