Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will not remain on the sidelines and allow former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to win the 2027 presidential election.
Wike made the remark while responding to questions about his frequent visits to Rivers State and suggestions that he was planning to relocate from Abuja ahead of the election.
The former Rivers State governor said his trips were aimed at maintaining close contact with his political base and monitoring developments himself rather than relying on reports from political associates.
“It’s not about relocating, it’s about coming home to relate with the people and talk to them, and also do those things you know how to do very well, not to take chances.”
He explained that remaining in Abuja and depending on others to tell him that everything was going well politically would be risky ahead of the 2027 election.
“I don’t want to sit in Abuja and candidates are saying, ‘oh, don’t bother, everything is going on well’. I have to come home and see that all those things are going on. ‘Have you done this? Have you done this? What about this? What about this?’”
Wike then made it clear that his political activities were also connected to the coming presidential election.
“I can tell you my parents are still very much alive. Of course, this is time for politics.”
He added, “You want me to fold my hand for Atiku Abubakar to come and win the election?”
In another remark during the media engagement, Wike described himself as the “general commander of the political infantry”, referring to his political influence in Rivers State and the FCT.
His comments come amid increasing political realignments ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with Wike remaining a strong supporter of President Bola Tinubu and critical of the opposition camp led by Atiku.
Wike’s comments have since triggered reactions online, with some Nigerians accusing him of being overly focused on political power while others praised his determination to remain active in the political process.
Reacting, @Johnson4biz: “This man pride will make Tinubu lose Abuja to @sowore and promise wike one thing come 2027 he will surely cry. Just bookmark it.”
@FeloHalamadrid: “Mumu man u go cry sha after Atiku win 😂”
@JustDamad: “The only crime Atiku committed was winning the PDP primary Election when Wike contested 😂💔 Man has been crying ever since”
@MoGacleaners: “So if Atiku wins by the will of the people, you take it?”
@wickeduncleagbo: “If na working country be this, they suppose don arrest this man.”
@JahbreezFX: “That statement sets the tone for a very intense political battle. Wike is clearly signaling that he intends to be an active force on the ground rather than a silent observer.”
@princeDaniel_O: “Says the ONLY voter in Abuja and rivers state.”
@damianjnrblog: “See wetin this one dey talk, he’s trying to say he will rig the Election, which is mandatory that they’ll do it,but nah peter obi them supposed dey fear Nobi Atiku Self”
