Why Wike controls the political game in Abuja

It is beyond doubt that Nyesom Wike controls the political game in Abuja, primarily through his strategic alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acting as a key power broker with substantial political influence.

His role as minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has given him direct, assertive control over the capital’s development, while his hold on Rivers State politics provides him with a powerful bargaining chip.

Wike’s appointment was a reward-based choice to secure regional balance and political dynamism. He has pledged support for President Tinubu through 2031.

His political energy and capacity for performance have earned him a reputation as an extremely influential, high-performing stakeholder within the APC-led administration.

Wike maintains a firm, sometimes disruptive, grip on the political machinery in Rivers State as well.

Wike has gained attention through assertive, and sometimes controversial, actions. He has focused on restoring the Abuja master plan.

He has taken a leading role in causing internal discord within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), challenging factional leaders and ensuring the party cannot present a unified front in opposition.

Wike’s influence is seen as a mix of political maneuvering, leveraging the federal, and maintaining a base in Rivers State.

Recently, he threatened to revoked any buildings housing the fractional PDP opposing his leadership of the party.

Following his announcement, reactions have been polarised, with supporters praising his stance on the rule of law and critics accusing him of acting as a “political undertaker” to dismantle the opposition.

Bode George, PDP chieftain accused Wike of acting like a “political undertaker” trying to destroy the PDP and suggested that only President Bola Ahmed Tinubu could call him to order.

Wike’s supporters and aids argued that Wike’s actions are not political but part of his duty to enforce land and tenancy laws, alleging that the Turaki led faction is engaging in fraudulent activities in defiance of Supreme Court rulings.

Ahmed Tijjani Ramala said Wike challenged the Turaki faction to attempt to open a new office, vowing to “seal it up” and take over the property.

Many responses reflect frustration with the worsening internal crisis, with some arguing that the PDP is already “dead” and that Wike is merely finalising its collapse.

Critics have raised concerns that these actions, if unchecked, are pushing Nigeria towards a one-party state, aimed at stifling opposition.

However, Wike maintained that his actions are aimed at forcing compliance with court judgements that he claims recognise the Abdulrahman-led faction as the legitimate PDP leadership.