APC Chairman Yilwatda Says Wike Free to Join Party Amid Ongoing Political Alignment Talks

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has declared that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is at liberty to join the ruling party if he so chooses.

Yilwatda made the remark during a media interaction in Abuja, where he emphasized that the APC operates an open-door policy and does not compel individuals to become members. According to him, political association with the party remains a voluntary decision, stressing that Wike—or any other political figure—is free to formally align with the APC.

The APC chairman clarified, however, that Wike is not currently a member of the party despite his working relationship with the ruling government. He explained that the former Rivers State governor continues to operate within a framework of political cooperation that allows him to serve in the administration while retaining his affiliation with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Yilwatda further noted that this arrangement followed due process, as Wike had obtained approval from his party to participate in the APC-led government. He reiterated that the APC has not conferred membership status on the minister and that party decisions remain strictly within its formal structures.

Addressing concerns over internal dynamics within the APC, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, Yilwatda urged party stakeholders to maintain unity and avoid tensions between longstanding members and new entrants or allies. He warned against allowing political pressure from defectors to destabilize the party’s internal balance as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development comes amid shifting political alliances and ongoing realignments across Nigeria’s political landscape, with both the APC and opposition parties positioning for future electoral contests.