Former Rivers State governorship candidate Tonye Cole has criticized Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike for appearing to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC) while claiming membership in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Cole made these remarks on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” urging clarification of Wike’s political loyalty.
Wike’s stance has been under scrutiny since the 2023 presidential election, when he advocated for the presidency to be zoned to the South, contrary to his party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar, who hails from the North. After the election, President Bola Tinubu appointed Wike as a minister, and he has since voiced support for Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
In the recent local government elections in Rivers, the APC won 20 of 23 council seats, while the PDP secured three, including Obio/Akpo—where Wike previously served as chairman. Cole’s comments highlight concerns that blurred party lines could undermine democracy in Nigeria.
The episode has sparked debate about the importance of clear party affiliations for politicians and the potential consequences of confusing the electorate. As Nigeria’s political landscape evolves, transparency and accountability in political relationships and alliances are increasingly vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring informed voter decisions.
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