Wike Insists He Remains In PDP, Dismisses France Arrest Rumours

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, addressed the defection of 16 Rivers State lawmakers and explained why the political tension in the state has taken a new turn.

The development drew attention after the lawmakers abandoned the Peoples Democratic Party for the All Progressives Congress, creating fresh concerns about the future of the PDP in the state.

The move by the lawmakers came after months of internal conflict within the PDP. Wike linked their exit to the growing divisions in the party, saying the situation created the conditions that allowed them to move to another platform. He maintained that only part of the Assembly left and insisted that the PDP still has members willing to keep the party structure alive.

Wike made his position clear while inspecting road projects in Abuja. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP and dismissed any claim that he was preparing to defect. He stressed that his focus remains on governance and that he intends to keep working with the remaining lawmakers who stayed back in the party.

The minister called on PDP leaders to address the crisis urgently. He warned that the unresolved issues are hurting the party’s strength and could lead to more losses if not handled properly. He urged those still in the PDP to stay committed while the leadership works toward restoring order.

Amid the political tension, Wike also reacted to viral rumours that he had been arrested in France. He described the rumour as a tactic meant to distract him from his duties. He pointed out that he was carrying out official assignments in Abuja at the time the story spread and said such claims often appear whenever political activities intensify.

He stated that his focus remains on delivering the projects assigned to him as FCT minister and maintaining the trust of President Bola Tinubu. He added that steady work and results will eventually drown out false stories and criticisms surrounding his name.