Our Reporter, Abuja
Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has denied claims by Oyo governor Seyi Makinde that he promised President Bola Tinubu he would “hold PDP” for him ahead of the 2027 election.
Makinde had alleged that Wike made the remark during a meeting with Tinubu, saying he confronted Wike afterward and ruled out supporting Tinubu’s re-election. The claim deepened an already strained relationship between the two PDP leaders, who were both part of the G5 governors that opposed Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 presidential bid.
Responding during a media chat on Monday in PortHarcourt, Wike described the allegation as a “blatant lie,” insisting no such statement or meeting occurred. He questioned why Makinde failed to raise the issue earlier within the PDP and said the meeting with Tinubu involved several former governors, not a private discussion.
Wike also suggested Makinde’s comments were driven by frustration over failing to secure a ministerial slot for his nominee, adding that attempts at reconciliation had failed because Makinde had “made up his mind.” He further criticised Makinde’s political judgment, saying he lacked understanding of party politics.
