During a live media session on Wednesday evening in Abuja, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike took a firm stance against Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike expressed doubt about Atiku’s chances in the 2027 elections, citing a history of repeated rejections by Nigerian voters.
“Atiku has presented his blueprint to Nigerians multiple times, and each time, he has been turned down,” Wike stated. He went on to question Atiku's aspirations for another chance in 2027, suggesting that his appeal has waned among both the PDP and the public.
Last week, Atiku claimed that, had he won the 2023 election, he would have managed Nigeria differently than President Bola Tinubu, sparing Nigerians from the current level of hardship. Wike, however, dismissed Atiku's comments, suggesting that Nigerians had already weighed his blueprint in 2023 and opted against him.
“Did Nigerians not hear his plans in 2023? They listened and ultimately rejected him. He is lobbying again, but the opportunity may no longer be there,” Wike remarked, questioning the wisdom of backing the same candidate repeatedly over the years.
Drawing a parallel, Wike commented, “Look at America, where citizens weighed their options and made choices based on the country’s good. Similarly, Nigerians heard Atiku in 2023, considered his plans, and declined. Criticism alone doesn’t equate to effective opposition.”
