By Sochima Agbo, Port Harcourt

January 24, 2026

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Barrister Nyesom Wike, is reportedly considering a defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A source close to the minister disclosed that the anticipated defection would take place close to the election period and would involve many of Wike’s political associates from Rivers State and other parts of the country. The source described the planned move as a major political event expected to draw wide attention.

Wike was appointed FCT Minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023 following his support for the President during the last general election, despite being a leading figure in the PDP at the time.

According to the source, Wike’s planned defection is part of a broader political realignment aimed at strengthening the APC ahead of 2027. He added that additional high-profile politicians are expected to join the ruling party, potentially weakening opposition parties in the build-up to the next presidential election.

The source further claimed that internal competition within the PDP - particularly among key figures reportedly interested in the party’s presidential ticket could deepen divisions within the opposition party.

Speaking on the political crisis in Rivers State, including the impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, the source said the situation was beyond the personal influence of the FCT Minister. He maintained that the Rivers State House of Assembly remains resolute in its actions, citing alleged breaches of prior agreements by the governor.

The source also referenced previous reconciliation efforts, including meetings held in Port Harcourt last year, alleging that commitments made by the state government to lawmakers were not fully implemented.

On the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State last year, the source claimed that President Tinubu directed the appointed sole administrator to work with relevant stakeholders to stabilize governance, including addressing outstanding entitlements owed to members of the State Assembly.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from the FCT Minister or the leadership of either the PDP or APC.