Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced that he will resign from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's cabinet if the President fails to win the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State in the 2027 presidential election. Wike made this statement while addressing members and leaders of the Apo Mechanics and Traders Association in Abuja. He emphasized his political commitment to Tinubu's re-election and the growing coalition being built ahead of the poll.
Wike, a former Rivers State governor, stressed that his position as FCT Minister carries a political responsibility, particularly in ensuring that the President secures strong support in the territory under his administration. He believes that if he fails to deliver the promised electoral results, it would be inappropriate for him to remain in office. Wike stated, "If I cannot deliver where I work, then I'm not worthy to be here."
The FCT Minister has set a specific date for his proposed resignation, January 17, 2027. He made this declaration while reaffirming his commitment to Tinubu's re-election and the coalition being built in the FCT. Wike has been positioning himself as a key politician working to mobilize support for Tinubu outside the formal structure of the ruling All Progressives Congress. Although not an APC member, Wike has openly backed Tinubu's bid for another term in office.
Wike's focus for 2027 is to secure victory for the President in Rivers State and the FCT. In August, he stated that his priority was delivering these two territories rather than seeking a position in Tinubu's presidential campaign council. Wike emphasized that winning these states is more important than holding a position in the campaign council. He has also been promoting a multi-party or "Rainbow Coalition" to support Tinubu.
The minister's political campaign in the FCT has included promoting a unified coalition across parties to deliver results. He has expressed confidence in Tinubu and other candidates he supports in the FCT, including former FCT Senator Philip Aduda. Wike has endorsed Aduda for the FCT Senate seat, citing his experience in the National Assembly as a valuable asset for the territory.
Wike's support for Aduda has become a significant part of his political activities in the territory. This has coincided with a growing dispute over the territory's representation and the contest for the FCT Senate seat. Incumbent Senator Ireti Kingibe has remained in the political contest, while Wike has openly backed Aduda. The minister has encouraged residents to consider development projects executed across the territory when making their choices at the polls.
The FCT Minister's announcement has significant implications for the 2027 election. Wike's commitment to delivering results in the FCT and Rivers State will be closely watched. His resignation threat has also raised questions about the potential impact on Tinubu's re-election bid. The outcome of the election in these two critical states will be crucial in determining the success of Tinubu's presidency.
Key points
- Wike will resign as FCT Minister if President Tinubu loses in FCT and Rivers State in 2027.
- Wike is promoting a multi-party coalition to support Tinubu's re-election bid.
- The FCT Minister has endorsed Philip Aduda for the FCT Senate seat.
