Ex-Tinubu aide reveals why APC governors oppose Wike
Denge Josef Onoh, former South-East spokesman for President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 campaign, said on Thursday, September 15, 2026, that the disagreement between some APC governors and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike stems from Wike’s longstanding pattern of political confrontation and mobilisation. Onoh traced Wike’s career from his 1999‑2007 tenure as chairman of Obio‑Akpor LGA in Rivers State, through his role as Chief of Staff to then‑Governor Rotimi Amaechi, his appointment as Minister of State for Education under President Goodluck Jonathan, and his involvement in the political struggles that preceded the 2015 Rivers elections.
This revelation highlights a growing fault line within the APC as the party gears up for the 2027 general elections. Wike’s confrontational style has alienated certain governors, potentially undermining party unity and complicating coalition‑building efforts, especially after his recent endorsement of a Rainbow Coalition for 2027.
Onoh added that he was among the few former PDP members in Tinubu’s campaign who advocated bringing Wike into the fold, indicating the current rift is more about political strategy than personal animosity. Will APC leaders seek to reconcile with Wike to broaden their electoral base ahead of 2027, or will the confrontation deepen, pushing him further into opposition alliances?