Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticized the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Wike described the ticket as a "joint ticket of corruption" during town hall meetings with the Rumueme and Apara Kingdoms in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. He questioned the alliance's ability to secure the required constitutional threshold of votes in Rivers State and other strategic states ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Wike revisited past allegations surrounding Atiku, citing comments previously made by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who served as Atiku's principal when he was vice president. Obasanjo had described Atiku as corrupt and regretted making him his Vice President. Wike expressed surprise at Atiku's recent comments, where he asked Nigerians to reject money from people in power, labeling it as "stolen money." Wike argued that Atiku's stance on corruption was inconsistent with his past actions.
The FCT minister also criticized Amaechi's presence on the ticket, stating that it compounded the political baggage associated with the opposition alliance. Wike emphasized that his major political priority remained the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027. He urged Rivers residents to support Tinubu, citing the president's recognition of the state through political appointments and development projects.
Wike expressed confidence in Tinubu's chances of securing support in the state, saying the president's re-election campaign would be easier than his 2023 bid. He encouraged residents to appreciate Tinubu and ensure massive votes for him. The minister also cautioned political and community stakeholders against internal conflicts, urging them not to allow disagreements at the grassroots to undermine political activities.
During the town hall meetings, Wike shared his commitment to Tinubu's re-election, stating that he thinks about the president's re-election every day. He urged Rivers residents to forget sentiments and vote for the person who has recognized them with dividends of democracy and appointments. Wike's comments reflect his continued support for the president and his efforts to secure votes for Tinubu's re-election.
In addition to criticizing the Atiku-Amaechi ticket, Wike also described the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, and other opposition politicians as "unelectable." Wike's comments highlight the ongoing political tensions and alliances in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The minister's stance on the Atiku-Amaechi ticket and other opposition politicians reflects his strategic efforts to secure support for Tinubu's re-election.
The town hall meetings, which took place on Monday, were an opportunity for Wike to engage with stakeholders and express his views on the emerging opposition alliance. His comments have sparked reactions from various quarters, with many Nigerians weighing in on the implications of the Atiku-Amaechi ticket and Wike's continued support for President Tinubu. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Nigeria's political landscape is expected to continue evolving with new alliances and strategies.
Key points
- Wike criticizes the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a "joint ticket of corruption."
- Wike expresses confidence in President Tinubu's re-election chances in 2027.
- Wike describes Peter Obi and other opposition politicians as "unelectable."
