The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to immediately resign his ministerial appointment over what he described as persistent interference in the internal affairs of the ruling party, particularly in Rivers State.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, Basiru reacted to recent comments attributed to Wike, which he said were directed at his person and office following his assertion that sitting governors remain the leaders of the APC in their respective states and deserve due respect from party organs.
Basiru described Wike’s comments as “uncouth” and “shocking,” noting that such remarks were unbecoming of a member of the Federal Executive Council. He stressed that Wike is not a member of the APC and therefore lacks the standing to interfere in the party’s internal matters.
“Our records clearly show that Minister Nyesom Wike is not a member of the APC. As National Secretary, I am duty-bound to protect the interests of the party, its members and structures nationwide. My responsibilities are not limited to my home state,” Basiru stated.
The APC scribe also dismissed allegations credited to Wike that APC leaders were scrambling for an alleged N600 billion in Rivers State, describing the claim as baseless blackmail. He challenged the FCT minister to provide proof or be prepared to substantiate the allegation in court, insisting that his public life is defined by integrity.
Basiru further warned against what he termed veiled threats from the minister, saying he would not be intimidated. He recalled his role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle during the military era, adding that he would continue to stand firm in defence of democratic values and party discipline.
He also clarified that Wike’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not translate into APC membership, noting that millions of Nigerians outside the party also support the President.
According to Basiru, it is unacceptable for a non-party member serving in an APC-led government to use the influence of public office to foment division within the party.
“The honourable thing for him to do, if he cannot refrain from causing confusion within the APC, is to resign his appointment as Minister,” Basiru said.