The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has claimed that he forced Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, out of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite the governor’s financial strength.

Wike made the claim on Tuesday during a media parley while responding to Lawal’s reported reference to him as “that guy”.

The minister alleged that Lawal could not withstand his political influence within the PDP, despite having substantial financial resources.

“Ask the governor of Zamfara State. When he was in PDP, I chased him away. He had money. They couldn’t withstand me,” Wike said.

He further alleged that Lawal had access to additional funds that he had heard were being kept on behalf of another person.

According to Wike, Lawal’s subsequent move to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was ironic, given that the governor had previously accused him of working to undermine the PDP in favour of the ruling party.

“And I did him a favour. He now came to APC. Meanwhile, this was one of the governors who said I was killing the PDP for APC.

The same person now run to APC,” the minister said.Wike’s comments come amid political tensions within the PDP and continuing realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.