Wike: PDP defections prove I was right to support Tinubu

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says the wave of defections by governors and senior members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has vindicated his earlier decision to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Wike made the comment on Wednesday during the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway in Abuja.

He said those who once accused him of undermining the PDP by supporting the APC are now defecting to the same party.

“I have been watching television and social media,” Wike said.

“The same people who claimed I was destabilising the PDP and working for the APC are all now in the APC. So, if that’s true, they should commend me for paving the way for them.”

His remarks come amid a series of high-profile defections from the PDP in recent weeks.

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri both announced their move to the APC, citing alignment with President Tinubu’s leadership vision.

Diri’s defection—alongside 19 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly—has reduced the number of PDP governors from 11 in October 2024 to just eight.

Wike, a former Rivers State governor and leading member of the G-5 group of aggrieved PDP governors, described the ongoing political realignments as proof of Tinubu’s “visionary and pragmatic leadership,” which he said has strengthened Nigeria’s economic and infrastructural base.

“In the past, governors were running from bank to bank to fund projects and pay salaries.

“Today, because of one man’s leadership, banks are the ones running to states,” he said.

“President Tinubu has created the financial space for every state and the FCT to not only pay salaries but also execute meaningful projects.”

He commended the President’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as a bold step that previous administrations were unwilling to take.

According to him, no state can now claim it lacks the resources to pay workers or embark on development initiatives.

Reaffirming his commitment to improving infrastructure in the FCT, Wike said his administration was keeping its promises to residents.

“When we commissioned the Apo–Wassa Road, we promised to dualise the Outer Southern Expressway.

“Today, by the grace of God and with the support of Mr. President, we are fulfilling that promise,” he said.

On the relocation of Apo traders, Wike revealed that the administration had received cost estimates for infrastructure development at the new site, signaling progress on the long-awaited resettlement plan.

He also commended the cooperation among FCT area council chairmen, noting that leaders from different political backgrounds were now working together for the capital’s development.

“This has never happened before. All council leaders, regardless of political platform, are united in supporting the FCT Administration.

“That’s the kind of unity we need to move the territory forward,” he said.

The minister acknowledged the presence of former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo at the event, hinting at plans to collaborate on youth development initiatives.

“This administration will continue to prioritise infrastructure and youth empowerment.

“With people like Yobo on board, we’ll explore ways to engage young people for the benefit of Abuja,” he said.

Wike stressed that good leadership should be recognised regardless of political affiliation.

“It doesn’t matter what party you belong to.

“When you see leadership that is purposeful and visionary, you must acknowledge it.

“That’s what the country needs—bold and decisive leadership that delivers results,” he said.

The construction of the Outer Southern Expressway carriageways is part of the FCT Administration’s ongoing efforts to ease traffic congestion and enhance urban mobility across the capital city.