Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it would welcome the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, should he choose to defect, underscoring what it described as a long-standing policy of voluntary political alignment rather than coercion.
Speaking in response to questions about Wike’s potential move to the party, the APC National Chairman stated that membership of the party remains open to all Nigerians who are willing to join of their own accord.
“If he wants to join the APC, he is free to do so,” the chairman said. “We do not compel people to join. People willingly align with the APC.”
The remarks come amid continued speculation over Wike’s political future and his relationship with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he remains a prominent but increasingly independent figure following the 2023 general elections.
Political analysts say the APC’s position reflects a broader strategy to expand its influence by attracting high-profile figures across party lines, particularly those with strong regional support bases.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a key power broker in southern Nigeria, has yet to publicly indicate any intention to switch parties. However, his recent political engagements and cooperation with the APC-led federal government have fuelled debate over a possible realignment.
While the APC maintains that it is open to new members, observers note that any potential defection by Wike could have significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape, especially within the opposition PDP, which continues to grapple with internal divisions.
