Feso Jason
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the presidential ambition of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, describing it as “dead on arrival.”
Wike made the remark on Thursday while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Gomani-Yangoje area of Kwali Area Council in Abuja.
His comments followed Makinde’s declaration of his intention to contest the presidency under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Ibadan, Oyo State. The declaration came after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Makinde’s faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APM.
Reacting to the development, Wike insisted that Makinde’s move to align with APM would not yield the desired political outcome.
“What you have is Seyi Makinde joining APM to be able to actualise his presidential ambition, which is already dead on arrival,” he said.
He further stressed that Makinde would not be allowed to contest under the PDP, noting that the governor’s political strategy had long been anticipated.
“It’s unfortunate. We know that has been his game plan and we would say he cannot fly the flag of PDP,” Wike added.
The FCT minister also dismissed claims of any formal alliance between PDP and APM, stating that the narrative was unfounded. According to him, the Governor of Bauchi State has not made any public statement supporting such a coalition.
Wike also addressed remarks attributed to the Governor of Rivers State regarding his political stance, questioning why there were concerns about the governor’s position.
“The man has told you he still remains APC. So what is the problem now?” he queried.
The latest exchange highlights growing political tension and shifting alliances ahead of the next general election, as key figures continue to position themselves within and outside major political parties.