PDP Gives APC's Basiru a 48-Hour Deadline to Clarify Comments on Wike

The factional leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-South zone has criticized Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for comments he allegedly made against the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.

This information was shared in a statement issued on Tuesday by the PDP South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary, Prince Etim Isong.

He characterized Basiru’s remarks as a personal attack on Wike, cautioning that such comments are inappropriate and detrimental to President Bola Tinubu’s administration and his prospects for re-election in 2027.

Isong expressed surprise that Basiru, who he noted failed to secure a governorship win for the APC in Osun State during the 2023 elections, would attempt to advocate for the interests of a defected Rivers State governor, who, according to him, came to power through Wike’s political efforts.

He also voiced concern that at a time when Nigeria is witnessing threats to the life of a ruling party’s national chairman in the North for merely suggesting President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, Basiru would make statements that could undermine Rivers State, which he described as a strong support base for the president.

“In fact, to suggest that Minister Wike’s backing of President Tinubu is no different from that of other non-APC supporters reflects a clear lack of political acumen from someone in the esteemed position of National Secretary of a ruling party.”

“Senator Basiru’s demand for the resignation of a capable minister like Nyesom Wike positions him as an adversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and an opponent of the Nigerian state.”

“This clearly demonstrates his unfitness to hold such a prestigious role as National Secretary of the ruling party. It is imperative that he resign immediately,” he stated.

“Moreover, Senator Basiru’s attempts to employ divide-and-rule strategies in Rivers State politics are destined to fail, as he lacks the necessary competence to engage Minister Wike in any political contest,” Isong remarked.

He advised the former lawmaker to withdraw from Rivers State politics, warning him against further meddling in the state’s political affairs.

“He has 48 hours to issue a full apology to Minister Nyesom Wike and the people of Rivers State. Failure to do so may lead to him being declared persona non grata in Rivers State.”

“Nyesom Wike serves as the national leader of the Peoples Democratic Party and cannot be belittled by an official from another political party.”

“Senator Basiru should recognize that even Governor Siminalayi Fubara acknowledges Minister Nyesom Wike as his leader and the architect of the political structure that enabled him to become the governor of Rivers State,” he added.

“Senator Basiru and the APC cannot now alter the reality that Minister Wike holds substantial influence in Rivers politics, enough to determine the survival of the APC in the state and the prospects of its candidates in the 2027 elections, including the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

“As APC’s National Secretary, it would be inexcusable if Senator Basiru does not understand, or pretends not to understand, that it was Wike’s ‘obsession’ with Rivers State politics that made the difference in 2023, and perhaps explains why he currently enjoys the status of National Secretary of Nigeria’s ruling party.”

“In politics, ingratitude is an offense, and biting the hand that feeds you is an even more unforgivable act. A word, they say, is sufficient for the wise,” Isong concluded.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!