Nyesom Wike has dismissed Seyi Makinde's presidential ambitions as stillborn, accusing the Oyo governor of using an alliance with the African Peoples Movement to revive his political fortunes.
Wike said Makinde's move to join the APM was a desperate attempt to remain relevant in national politics. The Rivers governor described the alliance as a false partnership that would not deliver the results Makinde hoped for. "What you have is Makinde joining APM to be able to actualise his presidential ambition, which is already dead on arrival," Wike said.
The comment reflects the widening rift between the two governors, who have been at odds over the direction of the Peoples Democratic Party and its leadership. Makinde had been touted as a possible presidential contender in recent months, but his move to explore options outside the main opposition party has drawn criticism from senior party figures.
Wike's intervention suggests he views Makinde's political calculations as misguided. The Rivers governor has established himself as a major power broker within the PDP and has not shied away from challenging rivals over their political decisions. His dismissal of the PDP-APM alliance indicates the party remains fractious heading into the next election cycle.
Makinde has not yet responded to Wike's latest attack. The Oyo governor has previously defended his political moves as strategic positioning to advance his interests and those of his state.
