The newly elected Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has called upon Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State, and his four counterparts in the G5 group to establish another dissatisfied faction within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the Senate President suggests this move would facilitate a smooth victory for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
Akpabio, formerly the governor of Akwa Ibom State, made these remarks on Sunday during a thanksgiving reception held at Wike’s private residence in Rumueprikom, located in the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of the oil-rich South-South state.
Expressing his gratitude, Akpabio commended Wike for his efforts to bring justice to Nigeria. He also extended his appreciation to the G5 Governors, referring to the Integrity Group composed of prominent politicians within the PDP who expressed dissatisfaction with the emergence of Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate in the February 25 elections.
“We are very delighted, we are proud to have G5. Please, ensure that in 2027, another G5 emerges so that APC will continue to do well in this country. And if you like, you can add two more, make it G7 and not only G5,” added Akpabio.
In addition to addressing Wike and the G5 members, Akpabio also directed his attention to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, highlighting that he had previously predicted Makinde’s governorship during a meeting with the late Alaafin. He commended Makinde’s leadership, remarking that he recognised the potential in him from their initial encounter.
The event was attended by all members of the G5, including Wike, Makinde, Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu). Other notable figures present included former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, Acting PDP Chairman Umar Damagum, and former governors Peter Odili (Rivers), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), and James Ibori (Delta). Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu represented President Bola Tinubu, and several other dignitaries, including APC stalwarts and members of the 10th National Assembly, graced the occasion.
The growing affinity between Wike and the APC, particularly under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, has become increasingly apparent. It is believed that the G5 played a significant role in undermining the chances of Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate, in the previous election due to their insistence on a rotational presidency following President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year administration.
Wike has frequently been visiting President Tinubu at Aso Villa in Abuja, fueling speculation that he may also be seeking a ministerial appointment given his current position outside of power.
