“The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has shared the reasons behind the visit of Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State, emphasizing that the Minister-designate is fully committed to collaborating with the ruling party.
This sentiment was expressed as the ex-governor of Kano State strongly believed that Wike’s involvement would enhance the APC’s prospects in 2027.
Ganduje revealed this insight during a visit by Simon Bako Lalong, the former Governor of Plateau State and Director General of the dissolved APC Presidential Campaign Council, to the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
However, the 73-year-old politician refuted the notion that their discussions encompassed the rumored defection of the former Rivers State governor to the APC.
He stated, “You are aware that Wike is an honorable Minister-designate, and his visit was primarily to exchange congratulations. We discussed and shared our thoughts on various matters.”
“We engaged in discussions regarding his future role as a minister, focusing on his dedication to drive his assigned ministry forward and his willingness to collaborate. However, we did not touch upon the matter of his potential move to or from the APC; that topic will come up later.”
Furthermore, the national chairman shared that Wike’s affiliation with the party will enhance their prospects leading up to the upcoming election. Simultaneously, they are devising a blueprint to expand the party’s membership in a way that could result in the merging of other political parties with the APC. This approach aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s advocacy for national unity.
“Wike’s involvement will undoubtedly bolster our party’s prospects, particularly in 2027. We are concurrently formulating a new strategy to amplify the party’s following, encompassing officials from all walks, whether within the APC or other political parties. In due course, we anticipate that some political parties may even merge with the APC. These efforts are being undertaken behind the scenes.
“However, the concept of national unity goes beyond just one party in Nigeria. It encompasses national competence and national capacity,” he affirmed.
Lalong, who also addressed the press, clarified that his visit aimed to extend congratulations to Ganduje on assuming the position of the new APC national chairman.
The former Plateau governor conveyed that apart from discussing strategies for advancing the party, every member recognizes Ganduje as the most seasoned politician among them.
“As I was unavailable during the conclusion of the national caucus and NEC meeting, I have now returned to formally congratulate Ganduje and explore ways to support his leadership of the party.
“With his history as a governor, and considering his extensive experience in the civil service, as a permanent secretary, commissioner, longest-serving deputy governor, and eventual governor, we consider him the most experienced politician among us. With such a track record, what more could we require in party affairs? We have faith in his capabilities as our national chairman. This endeavor is not about a single individual; whenever he seeks input, he engages in thorough consultation, and we are always available to provide assistance. His fellow governors and colleagues are always ready to support him in this endeavor to ensure the success of the party.”
