APC Should Leverage Wike’s Influence, Says Jibrin During Arise News Interview. 

APC Should Leverage Wike’s Influence, Says Jibrin During Arise News Interview.

House of Representatives member Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin has publicly stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) needs the services of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, more than Wike himself needs the party. Jibrin, representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, made this assertion during a discussion on Arise News, emphasizing Wike’s significant political influence and strategic value to the ruling party amid the upcoming general elections.

Jibrin argued that Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, possesses qualities similar to President Bola Tinubu, including resilience and relevance, which he has maintained despite periods out of office. He pointed out that Wike’s political relevance remains intact, citing his ability to command attention across the country regardless of his current position. “Wike will be in demand all the time,” Jibrin said, adding that the minister has worked extensively for the APC, especially during the 2023 elections, and should not be allowed to leave at this critical juncture.

The APC chieftain also highlighted Wike’s political strength, noting that if he decides to leave the party, he would be highly sought after by other political groups such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). He emphasized that Wike’s departure could weaken the APC’s electoral prospects and described him as a valuable asset that the party must negotiate with, just as President Tinubu did personally.

Jibrin called on APC governors to adopt a pragmatic approach in engaging Wike, warning against the internal conflicts that have emerged within the party. He criticized the recent press conferences by some governors attacking Wike, stating that such moves are counterproductive given the peculiar political situations in different states. He urged party leaders to prioritize negotiations with Wike, asserting that doing so could prevent the formation of a coalition against APC, which would undermine the party’s chances in the elections.

He also reaffirmed his belief that President Tinubu’s administration should actively engage Wike to secure his loyalty, warning that any attempt to push him aside could be costly. “If the President hadn’t negotiated with Wike and brought him into the fold, there would be a Rainbow Coalition against APC,” Jibrin explained.

This statement underscores the strategic importance of Wike, whose political influence extends beyond his state, making him a key figure in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. As the 2027 elections approach, the internal dynamics within APC and Wike’s future role remain critical factors shaping Nigeria’s political scene.