The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has rejected allegations that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government is intimidating opposition parties to establish a one-party system.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, Wike said such claims are unfounded, insisting that political competition naturally involves strategic maneuvering by both ruling and opposition parties.
The controversy follows recent tensions within opposition groups, including the leadership dispute in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declined to recognise rival factions amid ongoing court cases.
Wike, however, argued that current complaints from opposition figures are minor compared to what he personally experienced under the administration of the late Muhammadu Buhari.
According to him, he faced significant political pressure at the time but chose to fight through legal means rather than retreat.
“If anyone was truly targeted by government, it was me, and I stood my ground,” he said, recalling internal party battles involving Ali Modu Sheriff that eventually reached the Supreme Court.
He maintained that political parties often seek advantages wherever possible, describing it as a normal part of the system.
Addressing concerns about the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike expressed confidence that the party remains viable and will actively participate in the 2027 general elections despite its internal crisis.
He noted that while the PDP has not produced a president since 2015, it continues to maintain relevance across different levels of government.
Wike also cautioned against focusing solely on winning the presidency, stressing the importance of building strong grassroots structures to remain competitive nationwide.
“Politics is not just about the presidency. Strength at the state and local levels is equally important,” he said.
On the PDP’s internal divisions, the minister suggested that the crisis is easing and emphasised the need for unity and strategic planning ahead of future elections.
He also dismissed suggestions that there was anything unusual about prominent party figures such as Bukola Saraki, Ahmed Makarfi, and Sule Lamido attending a recent factional convention.
According to him, their participation was simply the result of discussions and a shared understanding of the party’s current realities.
Wike concluded by urging party members to focus on strengthening the PDP’s foundation rather than chasing unrealistic ambitions, noting that long-term relevance depends on solid structures at all levels of governance.