How APC Will Solve Wike, Governors’ Rift – Chairman Yilwatda

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it will use dialogue and mutual respect to manage the growing disagreement between some of its governors and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

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APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, said the party would not allow the dispute to undermine its internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Yilwatda spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, in an interview with Leadership in Abuja.

The disagreement centres on Wike’s continued support for President Bola Tinubu while retaining his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The FCT minister has also maintained that backing Tinubu for the presidency does not require him to support APC candidates contesting governorship and legislative elections.

Wike has further defended the Rainbow Coalition, rejecting suggestions that the political arrangement was designed to weaken the ruling party. 

He said its focus was to mobilise support for Tinubu’s re-election.

However, APC governors have taken a different position. The Progressive Governors’ Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, said its members would support only candidates officially fielded by the APC.

The governors warned against political arrangements that could weaken the party or affect its candidates during the 2027 elections.

Against this backdrop, Yilwatda said the APC viewed the disagreement as a political difference that could be resolved without turning it into an internal crisis.

He said the party would continue to provide room for engagement while protecting its structures and electoral interests.

“Wike has clearly stated his position on the Rainbow Coalition, just as APC governors have stated their commitment to the President and candidates of the party,” Yilwatda said.

He added that the party’s immediate concern was to preserve unity while allowing political actors to exercise their democratic rights.

According to him, the APC would continue engaging stakeholders who are committed to the country’s progress and would avoid actions capable of deepening divisions.

“Political differences are part of democratic practice. They should be addressed with dialogue, maturity and respect rather than personalised attacks,” he said.

Yilwatda also stressed that the APC remained focused on strengthening its structures and preparing for the 2027 elections despite the disagreement.