‘They called me a traitor, now they’re in APC’: Wike fires back at PDP defectors

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has fired back at critics within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who once labelled him a traitor for supporting President Bola Tinubu, noting that many of those critics have now defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking on Wednesday at the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways on Abuja’s Outer Southern Expressway, Wike recalled how some governors now in the APC had previously accused him of betraying the PDP.

He said their defections show that his actions were not wrong and argued that instead of criticising him, they should recognise that he was ahead of the curve.

“The recent defections from the PDP to the APC only vindicate my earlier decision to align with the ruling party. Their actions confirm that my political choice was the right one,” Wike said.

“I’ve been watching the same people on television and social media—those who said I wanted to destabilise the PDP and was working for the APC. Now they’ve all joined the APC. So, if that’s the case, they should thank me for helping them get there. I did a good job,” Wike added.

BusinessDay reports that in the past two days, the PDP has seen several key defections. Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, left the party for the APC, citing a desire to support national development under President Bola Tinubu. Similarly, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, along with 19 members of the State House of Assembly, defected on Wednesday. These moves have reduced the number of PDP governors from 11 in October 2024 to 8 as of today, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike also commented on improvements in state finances under President Tinubu, noting that the days when governors struggled to pay salaries and fund projects are over.

He said, “I was governor for eight years, and I remember having to approach banks just to fund projects. Sometimes, the monthly allocation couldn’t even cover salaries and allowances.”

He attributed the current financial stability in the states and the Federal Capital Territory to President Tinubu’s leadership.

“Today, banks are no longer being approached by states—banks now seek out states. That shows how much things have changed. States can now pay salaries, run government operations, and still fund development projects,” Wike added.

He said the defections to the APC were based on practical governance outcomes, especially the improved financial capacity of the states.

“If that’s the reason many are now supporting the President, then it makes sense. Governors no longer need to leave debts behind for their successors, which was common before. That is what leadership should achieve,” he said.

Wike added that Nigeria needs leadership that is clear-headed and willing to make necessary decisions traits he believes President Tinubu is demonstrating.