Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sharply criticized former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, asserting that Atiku has lost political relevance after repeated election defeats.
Wike’s remarks came in response to a statement by Atiku, in which the former presidential hopeful praised the resilience of the people of Rivers State following the conclusion of local government elections. Atiku had commended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara for maintaining peace and integrity during the elections, despite numerous challenges. He applauded the state’s residents for rejecting “political oppression and the influence of self-serving godfathers.”
In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku stated, “The people of Rivers have spoken in unison, reaffirming their commitment to democracy and rejecting any form of political intimidation.” He emphasized the importance of democratic governance in the state, lauding the citizens for standing firm against adversity.
However, Wike, speaking at a luncheon in honor of the 10th Rivers State Assembly on Saturday, fired back, claiming that Atiku’s repeated electoral failures prove that he has been rejected by Nigerians. The former Rivers State governor referred to Atiku’s unsuccessful presidential bids in both 2019 and 2023, suggesting that the former vice president should bow out of politics.
“We never contested the local government elections. Did we pick forms? No. I hear Atiku Abubakar say, ‘Oh, they have rejected me in Rivers State.’ Okay, assuming, though not conceding, that he has lost many times. Nigerians have also rejected him,” Wike said. He added, “You that contested and failed woefully, Nigerians have rejected you, so pack up and go home.”
Wike’s response highlights the deepening rift between the two political figures, who were once close allies. Since Wike’s appointment as Minister of the FCT, tensions between him and Atiku have continued to simmer, with both leaders taking shots at each other over their political influence and leadership roles.
