Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has made headlines by revealing extensive lobbying efforts from the camp of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, before the recent elections. In a luncheon held on Saturday in Port Harcourt, Wike expressed his steadfast refusal to endorse Obi or Atiku Abubakar, the candidate from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), instead choosing to support Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike’s comments came as he reflected on the political dynamics surrounding the election, indicating that his decision to back Tinubu has drawn criticism from both Obi’s and Atiku’s supporters. He stated, “All these things you are witnessing… There is Atiku’s group, Peter Obi’s group, and a few PDP governors who believe I am a problem for them. I will continue to be a problem for them.”
The former Governor of Rivers State recounted the persistent lobbying from Obi’s camp, asserting that despite their efforts, he remained firm in his decision. “Obi’s group lobbied me so much. They can’t deny it. I told them, ‘This will not work. Rivers State will not follow a path that doesn’t align with us… It will not succeed,’” he said.
Wike elaborated on the challenges he faces, claiming that certain individuals within the PDP are conspiring against him due to their aspirations for the party’s presidential ticket in 2027. “There is another conspiracy within the PDP by those seeking the presidency. They believe, ‘If we don’t act now, we’ll have a problem,’” he warned, asserting his confidence in overcoming these adversaries.
He emphasized that he believes his opponents, both within the PDP and the APC, will ultimately fail. “There is another group within the APC — very prominent figures. Together, they will all fail,” Wike declared, suggesting a broader struggle for power within Nigerian politics.
Additionally, Wike discussed his relationship with the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, stating that he does not consider him an ally. He explained that his primary concern is ensuring Damagum completes the tenure of former chairman Iyorcha Ayu. “I’m not friends with Damagum; he never supported me,” Wike said.
He expressed skepticism about the motives of those who claim to support him, cautioning others about misplaced trust. “But let me tell you why you must be cautious when trusting people… I saw something, and I thought, ‘This man, this man, I cannot trust you,’” he noted, reflecting on his experiences with political allies.
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