‘Sack Wike Now’: Protesters Storm APC National Headquarters in Abuja
Protesters on Friday stormed the national headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja, demanding the immediate removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet. Chanting slogans such as “Sack Wike now,” the demonstrators accused the former Rivers State governor of undermining democratic principles and exerting undue political influence both within the Federal Capital Territory and in Rivers State.
According to reports, the protest took place under heavy security presence as demonstrators gathered around the APC secretariat, drawing attention from party officials, passersby, and security agencies. While the exact number of protesters could not be independently verified, their message was clear: they want President Tinubu to relieve Wike of his ministerial duties without delay.
Nyesom Wike was appointed as FCT Minister by President Tinubu shortly after the inauguration of the current administration. His appointment sparked widespread debate across political circles, largely because Wike is a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and not an official member of the APC. Supporters of the appointment argued that Tinubu’s decision reflected a commitment to inclusiveness and national unity, while critics viewed it as politically risky and controversial.
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Since his appointment, Wike has remained a dominant figure in national political discourse. The former Rivers State governor has been locked in a prolonged political crisis with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, following a breakdown in their political relationship. The feud has significantly polarized Rivers State, with rival camps trading accusations of sabotage, godfatherism, and abuse of power.
Beyond Rivers State, Wike has also reportedly clashed with key figures within the APC. One of the most notable incidents involved his public warning to the National Secretary of the APC to stay away from Rivers State politics, a statement that many party members interpreted as overreach by a minister who does not formally belong to the ruling party.
The protest at the APC headquarters has generated mixed reactions among political observers and party supporters. Some commentators believe the demonstration is being sponsored by political opponents seeking to weaken Wike’s influence ahead of future electoral contests. Others argue that the protest reflects genuine frustration among Nigerians who believe Wike’s political style is confrontational and detrimental to democratic stability.
Several voices within the APC have downplayed the likelihood of Wike’s removal, insisting that President Tinubu still considers him a valuable political asset. Analysts point out that Wike’s grassroots influence in Rivers State and his reputation as a strong political mobilizer could be crucial to the APC’s long-term strategy, particularly with the 2027 general elections in view.
However, critics of the FCT Minister maintain that his continued presence in the federal cabinet sends the wrong signal. They accuse him of promoting godfatherism, interfering excessively in state affairs, and creating unnecessary political conflicts. For these critics, the protest represents a broader call for accountability and restraint in governance.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Presidency nor the APC leadership had issued an official statement in response to the protest. Security agencies also declined to comment on whether further demonstrations are expected.
The development underscores the fragile political alliances shaping Nigeria’s current political landscape, as well as the ongoing power struggle in Rivers State. Whether the protest will have any tangible impact on President Tinubu’s decision regarding Wike remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly reignited national debate over loyalty, power, and political influence within Nigeria’s ruling structure.