Wike denies lobbying for APC campaign DG position

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has publicly denied reports suggesting he is lobbying for the position of Director-General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the upcoming 2027 elections. Wike clarified his stance through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.

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I am outside Nigeria, resting and relaxing after spending over 30 days, commissioning projects, flagging off new ones and inspecting ongoing ones, especially those scheduled for commissioning in December and January, next year.

The reports had listed Wike among prominent party chieftains and government officials allegedly vying for or being considered for the campaign's top organizational role. However, Wike firmly refuted these claims, stating that he has not discussed leadership or membership of the Presidential Campaign Council with anyone. He emphasized that his current focus is not on campaign appointments.

While denying any lobbying efforts for the DG position, Wike reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid. He asserted that his commitment to ensuring Tinubu's victory in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory does not require a formal position within the campaign council. Wike highlighted his ongoing dedication to the President's "Renewed Hope Agenda."

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When I return, our focus will be the continuous delivery of our mandate in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to further enhance his electoral fortune in Rivers State and the FCT.

Wike mentioned that he is currently outside Nigeria, resting and overseeing project commissioning and inspections, particularly those scheduled for completion in December and January. Upon his return, he stated, the priority will be the continuous delivery of his mandate and further enhancing President Tinubu's electoral fortunes in his areas of influence. He concluded by reiterating that his contributions to securing a handsome victory for the President in Rivers State and the FCT are assured, irrespective of his role in the campaign council.

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Therefore, I do not need to be the DG or even member of the Presidential Campaign Council of Mr President’s political party to contribute my quota by ensuring that he wins handsomely in Rivers State and the FCT.