The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, on Wednesday night said the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is free to join the ruling party whenever he chooses.
He made the statement during a media chat in Abuja, where he spoke on party membership, government appointments, and political alignment ahead of future elections in Nigeria.
Yilwatda explained that joining the APC is voluntary and not forced on anyone, stressing that the party does not compel individuals to become members before working with the government.
He said political appointments under President Bola Tinubu are not based on party membership alone, noting that several people serving in the administration had previously been critical of the president but were still appointed.
According to him, there is no rule within the party or government that requires appointees to first join the APC before being considered for public office roles.
He added that the administration operates an open approach to governance, where even critics of the president have been accommodated and given responsibilities.
The APC chairman further said that those who once opposed or criticised Tinubu are now part of his government, describing it as proof of an inclusive political style.
His comments come amid ongoing political discussions about defections and alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, where party movements are already gaining attention across the country.