Nigeria: Pro-Tinubu Group Apologises to Seun Okinbaloye Over Wike Comment

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

A pro-Tinubu group, the NdIgbo for Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT), has apologised to Seun Okinbaloye over a remark involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Secretary General, Dr. Ugwuoke Ugwuoke Jr., the group said the comment had been misunderstood and taken out of context.

NDI-ABAT stated that it deemed it necessary to apologise to Okinbaloye in the interest of public decorum and harmony, despite not acting on behalf of the minister.

"The remarks were intended as light-hearted and should be viewed as such, notwithstanding the interpretation by some political actors," the statement read.

The group noted that Okinbaloye had reportedly confirmed that Wike reached out to him privately after the incident, clarifying his position and expressing goodwill, a move it said helped to ease tensions.

While stressing that it was not representing the FCT minister, NDI-ABAT said its action was driven by a sense of civic responsibility and recognition of Wike's support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It further described Wike as a "formidable leader" whose communication style could sometimes be misconstrued.

The group also called on opposition figures, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to refrain from escalating the issue, noting that the matter had been amicably resolved between the parties involved.

NDI-ABAT reiterated its commitment to promoting unity, civil discourse, and constructive political engagement as the country moves towards the 2027 general elections.

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