The All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently embroiled in a significant internal conflict, with its National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, publicly demanding the resignation of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Basiru asserts that Wike’s actions are actively destabilizing the ruling party, raising critical questions about his allegiance and whether Nyesom Wike is an APC member at all. This high-stakes political drama unfolds against a backdrop of accusations and warnings, highlighting deep fissures within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Senator Basiru’s stern warning came in response to what he described as a “tirade” from Minister Wike, following Basiru’s earlier statement emphasizing the need for respect towards sitting governors by all National Working Committee members. The APC secretary expressed shock at Wike’s “uncouth responses,” arguing that it is fundamentally incompatible for a minister in an APC-led government to simultaneously sow discord within the party’s structures. He unequivocally stated that Wike’s continued interference necessitates his immediate resignation from President Bola Tinubu’s administration if he cannot cease his disruptive activities.
What is party destabilization in Nigerian politics? Party destabilization refers to actions by internal or external actors that undermine a political party’s unity, cohesion, and operational effectiveness, often through internal conflicts, public disagreements, or attempts to disrupt its leadership and strategic direction.
Minister Wike, however, has fired back with equal vehemence, cautioning Basiru to steer clear of Rivers State politics. During a thank-you visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area, Wike alleged that some political actors, emboldened by the reported N600 billion in the state’s coffers, were making reckless statements about Rivers affairs. He declared Rivers State a “no-go area” for political interference, warning of serious consequences for those who failed to heed his advice and drawing a clear line in the sand regarding local political autonomy.
The genesis of this public spat traces back to comments made by the APC Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, who referred to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as “the so-called Governor” during Wike’s earlier visits. Giadom was also quoted implying Fubara’s inability to secure a second term without Wike’s backing. Basiru had previously criticized Giadom’s remarks as unfortunate, stressing the importance of respecting the office of the governor irrespective of political differences, a stance that evidently irked Minister Wike.
The ongoing Wike vs Basiru APC conflict illustrates a broader struggle for influence and control within the party. Basiru, as National Secretary, maintains his responsibility to protect the interests of the APC and all its members, asserting that his comments on Rivers State affairs are not undue interference but a necessary part of his duties. He dismissed Wike’s allegations of APC leaders scrambling for a purported N600 billion largesse as “cheap blackmail,” challenging the minister to substantiate his claims or face legal action. This confrontation highlights the intricate dynamics of power and loyalty shaping the party’s future.
A central point of contention in this dispute is the fundamental question: is Nyesom Wike an APC member? Senator Basiru emphatically stated that APC records indicate Minister Wike is not a member of the party, thus lacking the “locus to dabble into the affairs of our Party.” This raises significant questions regarding APC vs PDP membership rules and the implications for individuals holding cabinet positions in a government formed by a party they are not officially affiliated with. Wike’s public support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Basiru argues, does not automatically confer APC membership, distinguishing it from the support offered by millions of other non-APC Nigerians.
Understanding Wike political influence guide reveals a seasoned politician adept at navigating complex power structures. His warnings to Basiru, coupled with veiled threats about past political figures who meddled in Rivers State, underscore his formidable presence. Basiru, however, remained unbowed, declaring that Wike is “not God” and may be “overplaying his political card.” He emphasized his own background in confronting military rule, asserting that he would not succumb to what he perceived as cheap threats from the FCT minister.
Such internal strife has significant implications for the Nigerian political stability outlook 2026. Persistent public disagreements among high-ranking political figures can erode public trust, create uncertainty, and distract from critical governance issues. For the APC, managing this internal dissent effectively will be crucial for maintaining its cohesion and demonstrating strong leadership ahead of future electoral cycles and policy implementation. The party’s ability to resolve these conflicts will be a key indicator of its long-term viability and effectiveness.
Ultimately, the resolution of the APC party crisis explained by this public spat will require careful negotiation and a clear APC party strategy guide 2026. The party must address the underlying tensions, clarify membership rules, and establish clear boundaries for intervention in state-level politics. The ongoing debate about whether Nyesom Wike is an APC member serves as a potent symbol of the challenges facing Nigeria’s ruling party as it strives to maintain unity and focus amidst diverse political interests and ambitions.
