Agreement Is Agreement: Wike Confirmed as Minister Despite Opposition from PDP

By Mohammed Bello Doka

1 August , 2023

Abuja, Nigeria  

In a dramatic turn of events at the National Assembly complex on Monday, the Senate confirmed the ministerial appointment of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike. The prominent member of the opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) had been at odds with his own party, following its abandonment of the agreed zoning arrangements for the just concluded 2023 general elections.

According to the gentleman's agreement within the PDP, the presidential candidate for the party in 2023 was supposed to come from the southern region of the country. However, a highly controversial and heavily monetized primary election shattered the party's unity, resulting in former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, a Fulani man like the outgoing President Buhari, securing the ticket.

This unexpected development left Wike and other governors, known as the G5, in a state of protest against their own party's betrayal. They rallied behind the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing the importance of honoring agreements made within political circles.

As a result of his efforts in delivering River State to the APC during the last election, Wike found himself rewarded with a ministerial position. However, this move only intensified the dissent within the PDP, which vowed to punish Wike for what they labeled as anti-party activities.

Expressing gratitude for his nomination, Wike stated, "I thank Mr. President for nominating me as a Minister, and I want to assure him that if I'm confirmed, I will not disappoint him and the people of this country." With the confirmation of his appointment, Wike now faces the arduous task of proving his loyalty to both the governing party and the people of Nigeria.

As the political landscape continues to evolve , it remains to be seen how Wike's appointment will impact the already fragile unity within the PDP. The decision to confirm his position as a minister has ignited a fresh wave of controversy, and the nation watches anxiously to witness the unfolding consequences.