A prominent figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Magnus Abe, characterized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, as a significant presence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Despite this acknowledgment, Abe clarified that the former Rivers State Governor is not a member of APC.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Abe reminisced about his efforts to persuade Wike to align with Tinubu.
“I’m comfortable working with Wike. I did everything to convince Wike as governor then, to work for Tinubu in Rivers State,” stated Abe.
He emphasized his amicable relationship with Wike, acknowledging Wike’s current role within the APC government as a minister. Abe stressed the importance of collaboration, stating, “We must work together.”
In response to queries regarding Wike’s party affiliation, Abe clarified, “Wike is a minister in the APC government and not a member of the APC.”
Abe underscored the strategic significance of engaging with Wike, given his influential position within the APC government, aligning it with the party’s and the nation’s best interests, and expressing commitment to supporting President Bola Tinubu.
Reflecting on past events, Abe noted, “He was not a member of the APC when he led the G-5 to support Tinubu’s presidency bid.” Abe highlighted that neither did the president at the time, nor does the party presently, require Wike’s formal membership status to engage with him.
Abe concluded by asserting the party’s alignment with its leader’s approach, stating, “We are following the footsteps of our leader, therefore, we’ll work with him.”