The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the controversy surrounding his recent meeting with Julius Abure, the factional national chairman of the Labour Party (LP), describing it as a routine political engagement.

Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike said there was nothing unusual about politicians meeting to discuss matters of mutual interest, adding that such interactions were part and parcel of political life.

“Now, they said Abure came… of course. He is a politician. I am a politician. What is wrong?” Wike asked. “Politicians meet themselves. Just like you, journalists, you meet. Is there any crime?”

The meeting, which took place in July at Wike’s residence in Abuja, drew public criticism and fuelled speculation about potential political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections. Abure later clarified that the engagement was private and should not be misinterpreted, asserting his right as a Nigerian citizen to meet with public officials.

Cross-Party Relations Not Unusual – Wike

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and an influential figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), defended his cross-party relations, noting that he had also recently hosted the governors of Edo, Ebonyi, and Kogi States.

“They are my friends. We relate. I was once in their shoes,” he said. “We ask each other questions how did you do this? How are you handling this?”

When pressed on whether his meeting with Abure was connected to political realignments ahead of 2027, Wike declined to provide details. “Must I tell you my strategies? It’s not necessary,” he said.

‘I’m Not Helping My Opponents’

Responding to accusations that he is instigating the leadership crisis within the Labour Party, Wike categorically denied the claims but bluntly added that he had no intention of aiding political rivals.

“I’m not here to help anybody who’s my opponent. If they’re having problems, it’s my prayer that you should try to have a problem,” he remarked, triggering reactions from observers across the political spectrum.

Swipe at Atiku

Wike also used the opportunity to take a jab at Atiku Abubakar, the former vice president, over his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Though he did not elaborate, Wike’s remarks appeared to signal the deepening rift within opposition circles, particularly among former PDP heavyweights, as Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 electoral season.

Political Landscape in Flux

The comments come at a time of heightened political activity and realignments, with various parties and politicians positioning themselves for influence ahead of the next general elections. As one of the country’s most outspoken and strategic political players, Wike’s every move continues to attract national attention.