A senior member of the All Progressives Congress, Hilliard Etta, has stated that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is not a member of the APC and therefore has no authority to interfere in the party’s internal matters. He made this known during a television interview while reacting to the recent disagreement between Wike and the party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru.
Etta explained that the disagreement followed comments made by Basiru in support of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which led to a warning from Wike against interference in Rivers politics. According to Etta, the APC National Secretary acted within his duties by defending the party and its elected governor.
He noted that although Wike is known for his performance both as a former governor and as FCT minister, this does not change the fact that he does not belong to the APC. Etta said party leaders are expected to protect the interests and image of the party, adding that Basiru’s actions were in line with that responsibility.
Etta also said it was wrong for Wike to make statements that appeared to question Governor Fubara’s status or future in office. He stressed that Fubara was elected by the people of Rivers State and deserves respect from all political actors across the country.
According to him, the APC’s position is clear that its elected officials must be defended by party leaders, and anyone outside the party should not attempt to influence its internal decisions or political direction.