Party leaders have urged Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to formally join the APC if he is genuinely committed to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. This situation arises amid a renewed confrontation between Wike and APC governors concerning the political structure he is forming ahead of the general elections.
Wike, who was appointed by Tinubu despite his standing in the PDP, has faced scrutiny over the ambiguity of his political alliances. While some APC chapters are open to welcoming him if he decides to defect, others firmly oppose the coalition, asserting that a politician cannot simultaneously support the APC at the presidential level and candidates from other parties in governorship and legislative elections. This ongoing dispute highlights a growing divide within the APC regarding how to mobilize support for Tinubu’s re-election and control the political structures necessary for this effort.
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, emphasized the need for clarity in political allegiance, insisting that Wike must choose either to join the APC or remain with the Rainbow Coalition. Lawal’s remarks reflect a consensus among many APC governors that dual support is untenable. This sentiment is echoed by other APC representatives, notably in Imo and Gombe States, where party officials have criticized Wike’s ambiguous positioning and called for a full commitment to the APC.
In contrast, the Jigawa State chapter has indicated a willingness to embrace Wike’s support, stating that the APC can accommodate individuals from differing political backgrounds, thus minimizing fears that Wike’s involvement might undermine electoral outcomes.
Wike’s coalition has also faced rejection in Ondo State, where party officials argue that support for APC candidates must be unequivocal and not selective. This aligns with the party’s objective of ensuring comprehensive backing for all its candidates, not solely the presidential candidate.
The overall response from APC leaders reflects a strong preference for unified support, emphasizing that any additional coalitions could lead to voter confusion and other complications in the electoral process. Thus, the emphasis is placed on Wike’s potential role within the APC and the necessity for him to make a clear and formal decision regarding his political allegiance.
