Wike Says Obi Has Nothing To Offer Nigerians, Atiku Failed In Office

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, saying neither has a convincing record to offer Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike described Obi as lacking the capacity to provide credible alternative leadership, while accusing Atiku of failing to make meaningful contributions when he had the opportunity to serve in government.

The minister made the remarks on Thursday during his monthly media chat in Abuja, where he expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s chances of securing re-election in 2027.

Questioning the possibility of an opposition candidate defeating Tinubu in a presidential runoff, Wike challenged opposition politicians to identify who could realistically challenge the incumbent president.

“I’m a political scientist and have been in politics for more than a decade. Assuming there is a presidential runoff, it will be between Tinubu and who?” he asked.

Taking aim at opposition figures, the FCT minister argued that Nigerians were familiar with the records of politicians who had previously occupied positions of authority but were now criticising the present administration.

“Nigerians know that Atiku and co. have been given the opportunity, and they did not do anything. Nigerians know that the former governor of Rivers State looted our state. Nigerians know that Obi has nothing to offer.

You were there when Soludo opened a can of worms,” he said.

Wike also acknowledged the political influence of former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, particularly in northern Nigeria, but questioned whether his regional popularity could translate into victory in a presidential election.

He recalled Kwankwaso’s performance in the 2023 presidential election, when he attracted considerable votes in Kano and other northern states, arguing that his electoral appeal should be assessed within that context.

The minister’s remarks come amid ongoing political consultations, realignments and efforts by opposition parties to build a formidable coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike has consistently declared support for Tinubu’s re-election, maintaining that opposition politicians must demonstrate a credible record in public office and present a convincing alternative before seeking Nigerians’ mandate.