The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, has responded sharply to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging him to resign his ministerial appointment and concentrate on what he described as his “obsession with Rivers politics and the APC.”
Basiru made the remarks in a statement issued on Monday, reacting to Wike’s recent warning that he should steer clear of political affairs in Rivers State.
The APC scribe maintained that Wike lacked the standing to comment on the party’s internal affairs, insisting that such involvement would only be appropriate if the FCT minister formally defected to the APC.
“I am the National Secretary of the APC, and I do not see the authority or justification for someone who is not a member of the party to dabble in its affairs,” Basiru said.
He dismissed claims by Wike that he was motivated by interest in the alleged ₦600 billion in Rivers State funds, describing the assertion as unfounded and misleading.
“I take strong exception to the insinuation that I am interested in Rivers State allocations. My record is one of integrity and principled service. I am not an opportunist, and I have never shied away from taking firm positions on issues, regardless of whose interests are affected,” he stated.
Basiru further rejected what he described as veiled threats from the minister, insisting that he could not be intimidated.
“I cannot be bullied by anyone, no matter how highly placed. My record as National Secretary of the APC is above board, and I cannot be queried by someone who is not a member of the party,” he said.
He added that his responsibilities as APC National Secretary were national in scope and not limited to any single state.
Concluding his statement, Basiru advised Wike to relinquish his position as FCT minister and focus on political matters in Rivers State.
Wike had earlier cautioned Basiru to refrain from making statements or taking actions capable of inflaming political tensions in Rivers State.
