Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that he will resign from the Federal Executive Council if President Bola Tinubu fails to win the 2027 presidential election in the FCT and Rivers State. This declaration was made during an engagement with leaders and members of the Apo Mechanics and Traders Association in Abuja. Wike emphasized that he would take personal responsibility for Tinubu's performance in these two territories.
Wike specified that if Tinubu loses in the FCT and Rivers State, he will announce his resignation as FCT Minister on January 17, 2027, a day after the election. He expressed his confidence in Tinubu's re-election bid, citing the Minister's political influence in Rivers State, his former governorship, and his continued mobilization of support in the FCT. Wike's statement has added a new dimension to the 2027 contest in the FCT.
The FCT Minister reaffirmed his support for Tinubu, stating that political forces in the FCT are working together across party lines to ensure the President's victory. This coalition also aims to support candidates for legislative positions in the territory. Wike named former FCT Senator Philip Aduda and other candidates as those backed by the coalition. He emphasized that this arrangement represents a firm political agreement among the various groups involved.
Wike's declaration comes as the FCT Administration addresses issues surrounding the relocation and land allocation of traders and mechanics operating around the Apo Mechanic Village corridor. The engagement with the Apo Mechanics and Traders Association provided an opportunity for Wike to seek their support while reinforcing the political alliance being built ahead of the 2027 elections.
As a former governor of Rivers State, Wike's influence in the state makes the FCT and Rivers central to his political calculations. His comments highlight the significance of these territories in the 2027 presidential poll. Wike's continued mobilization of support for Tinubu in the FCT and Rivers State underscores his commitment to the President's re-election bid.
The Minister's statement has sparked interest in the 2027 contest, particularly in the FCT, where Wike remains a key figure. His pledge to resign if Tinubu loses in the FCT and Rivers State demonstrates his confidence in the President's chances and his willingness to take responsibility for the outcome.
Wike's efforts to build a coalition in support of Tinubu's re-election bid and legislative candidates in the FCT reflect the complex political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. As a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, Wike's actions and statements will likely continue to shape the country's political discourse in the lead-up to the election.
Key points
- Wike will resign as FCT Minister if Tinubu loses in FCT and Rivers State in the 2027 election.
- Wike expressed confidence in Tinubu's re-election bid and vowed to mobilize support in the FCT and Rivers State.
- The FCT Minister's statement has added a new dimension to the 2027 contest in the FCT and Rivers State.
