The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, Lere Olayinka, has dismissed allegations that Wike is engaging in anti-party activities.
Olyaink stated that the former Rivers State governor while serving in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, remains committed to Nigeria’s development rather than partisan interests.
He addressed the concerns on Saturday in response to accusations from a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Segun Sowunmi, who alleged that Wike was being used by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to destabilize the PDP.
The aide stated that the claims were baseless, saying: “Wike is not working for APC; Wike is working for Nigeria. He is working for the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He emphasized that Wike’s appointment as FCT Minister was a reflection of his competence and capacity to deliver results, not a betrayal of his party.
According to Olayinka, the Minister had informed the PDP of his intention to accept the role, and no objections were raised.
Olayinka further explained the distinction between parliamentary and presidential systems, noting that in the latter, appointments are not limited to members of the ruling party.
He cited examples of other opposition figures, like Daniel Bwala, who had been critical of President Tinubu but were still appointed to significant roles in his administration.
“When it is time to play politics, we play politics. That chapter ended with the election last year. Now is the time for governance.
“President Tinubu saw the potential in the FCT Minister and gave him the responsibility to deliver results for Nigerians,” Olayinka said.
The aide urged critics to focus on the bigger picture, stressing that Wike’s commitment to the success of his role as FCT Minister transcends partisan divides.
“Wike’s critics fail to understand that governance is about serving the people, not political affiliations,” Olayinka concluded.