The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculation about challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
The former Rivers State governor made his position clear during an interview with BBC News Pidgin over the weekend, putting to rest rumors sparked by his recent call for the Peoples Democratic Party to zone its presidential ticket to the South.
“I will not contest. Why will I contest against someone I’m working for?” Wike stated emphatically, reaffirming his support for Tinubu’s administration. He further expressed skepticism about any viable opposition candidate, adding, “I will not contest again. I cannot contest against someone I am working with. Who will win except him?”
Regarding the PDP’s zoning debate, Wike maintained a pragmatic stance: “They said they would zone it to the South, let them zone first. When we get to the bridge, we will know how to cross it.”
The minister also addressed the political situation in Rivers State, denying any personal conflict with suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Describing their relationship in paternal terms, Wike said: “That one is not a battle. He (Fubara) is my boy, he is my son, why will I fight with him? I’m only fighting against people who want to steal what they did not work for.”
Wike attributed the political tensions to third parties, claiming: “Now, they are ashamed because they are being defeated. They are the ones pushing Fubara.” His comments come amid ongoing political realignments in Rivers State following Fubara’s suspension by the state legislature.
