The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has categorically stated that there will be no opportunity for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to secure the party’s ticket in the 2027 elections.
Wike made this assertion during a live media parley held in his Abuja office on Wednesday.
When questioned about Atiku’s recent comments regarding his economic blueprint as a superior alternative to the current administration’s policies, Wike dismissed the notion, arguing that Atiku had already presented his ideas to Nigerians in 2023, only to be rejected.”Did he not present it before Nigerians? Did Nigerians choose him?” Wike asked rhetorically.
He continued, “He is lobbying for another chance, but the chance will not be there. In which party?
How can we rely on one man for so many years?”Drawing a parallel to American politics, Wike referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump to illustrate his point. “Look at America,” he said. “I’m sure many of you did not support Trump, saying he is this, he is a racist, he is that.
We cried, but Americans thought differently and made a decision for the good of their country.”Wike emphasized that the rejection of Atiku’s blueprint by Nigerians in the last election should be taken as a clear message. “You presented your blueprint in 2023; Nigerians heard you clearly and said thank you, but it will not work.
We will not support you,” he asserted. According to Wike, leadership should not be monopolized by one individual over an extended period, as it limits the growth and diversification of ideas within the party.
The Minister also criticized Atiku’s approach to opposition politics, suggesting that criticism alone does not equate to effective opposition. Wike further highlighted the importance of collective efforts within political parties, using Trump’s comeback strategy as an example.
“Trump was not in government, yet he got to work and told the Republicans, ‘Listen, what do we do? We have to be serious.’ You can’t sideline people and say you will fight someone just because you feel he is too influential,” Wike remarked.In conclusion, Wike dismissed Atiku’s claim to have a better plan for Nigeria, reiterating that Nigerians had already evaluated and rejected his proposals. He stressed the need for inclusivity and fresh ideas within the PDP, suggesting that relying on a single individual for the party’s leadership would only hinder progress.
