Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has revealed that he sought counsel from numerous leaders within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prior to accepting President Bola Tinubu’s offer to become a minister.
The inauguration of Wike and 44 other ministers took place on August 21, 2023.
In a press briefing held in Abuja following his swearing-in, Wike, who remains a member of the opposition PDP, explained his decision to embrace the ministerial role within Tinubu’s administration.
Wike outlined his consultations with several influential figures within the PDP before making his choice. “I corresponded with the National Party Chairman, engaged with minority leaders from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, communicated with the zonal Chairman of the party, approached my state Chairman, and even sought input from my governor. All of them responded with a unanimous recommendation to accept the offer,” he disclosed.
He further remarked, “I have meticulously documented the evidence of these communications. Sometimes, when fate hands you an opportunity and you decline it, someone else will seize it. Thus, it’s imperative not to be swayed by misleading propaganda.”
Meanwhile, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the PDP governor of Adamawa State, extended congratulations to Wike on his appointment as the FCT Minister. In an official statement shared through his verified X account (formerly Twitter), Fintiri praised Wike’s capabilities and expressed confidence that the former Governor of Rivers State would contribute significantly to the growth of the Federal Capital Territory.
Fintiri also acknowledged Wike’s commendable leadership record in Rivers State, underscoring that his achievements there had led to his elevation to the ministerial position.