OPINION: The Declining Influence of Wike as Tinubu Secures Defections from PDP Governors
By Donald Monye
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and one-time influential Governor of Rivers State, now finds himself at a precarious crossroads in Nigeria’s political theatre. Once a commanding force within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike’s political capital has markedly diminished, and the question is whether he has overplayed his hand.
Wike was long seen as the power broker of the PDP, wielding considerable influence through his robust hold over the party’s structures. However, as the PDP continues to falter and lose ground nationally, Wike’s bargaining power is waning. Wike has outsmarted himself by doubling down on confrontational politics, alienating key figures within and beyond his party. His once formidable position in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is now being overshadowed by Tinubu’s successful courting of governors across parties into his fold.
If Tinubu succeeds in consolidating the support of these governors, Wike’s role as a political kingmaker will diminish further. The PDP today is a shadow of its past, marked by internal divisions and promotional disputes. These rifts have only chipped away at Wike’s influence, reducing his relevance on the national stage.
The case of Wike as FCT Minister is emblematic of his fallen political stature. Despite publicly touting significant developmental strides and infrastructural projects within Abuja, the capital city, many contend that his administration has been marred by controversy and governance challenges. His tenure has been marked by public rows with powerful figures within the PDP and even the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). For example, the House of Representatives summoned him for budget defense and criticized his failure to appear, questioning his administrative commitments.
Wike’s approach has often veered into instability, making him a risk-laden figure for President Tinubu’s government, which is focused on stability and development. His reputation as a political firebrand who has had altercations with party members and APC leaders alike is not conducive to the calm governance environment Tinubu wishes to cultivate. This raises the argument that Wike is more a political baggage than an asset to the current administration.
In contrast, the achievements touted under his stewardship of the FCT, like road developments and land reforms, are considered replicable by another competent administrator who can manage governance without the distractions of ongoing political tussles or seeking personal political advancement. The capital requires steady, dependable leadership rather than a minister whose focus seems divided between governance and political maneuvering.
In conclusion, yes, Wike has overplayed his hand. His relevance to Tinubu diminishes daily as the president successfully courts governors and stabilizes his administration. Wike’s bargaining chips, once his firm grip on the PDP, are now reduced as the party struggles to reclaim its former dominance. The time is ripe for a recalibration of political alliances and for this government to do away with Wike, as he is no longer relevant.
Monye, a public affairs analyst, writes from Lagos.