The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly dismissed the possibility of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar securing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential ticket for the 2027 elections, asserting that it “simply will not happen.” Wike made this statement during a live media parley in Abuja on Wednesday evening, where he critiqued Atiku’s repeated efforts to gain the support of Nigerians through his political blueprint.
Referring to Atiku’s past campaigns, Wike noted that Atiku had presented his ideas to the nation numerous times, most recently as the PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 election, yet had failed to gain traction with voters. Atiku had recently commented that, had he won the election, he would have taken a different approach from President Bola Tinubu, and Nigerians would be facing less hardship.
However, Wike was dismissive, emphasizing that Atiku’s blueprint has already been rejected by Nigerians. “Did he (Atiku) not present it (the blueprint) before Nigerians? Did Nigerians choose him?” Wike asked. He argued that Atiku lobbying for another chance in 2027 is a futile endeavor. “How can we use one man for how many years?” he continued, suggesting that the PDP and its supporters are ready to move beyond Atiku’s repeated bids for the presidency.
Wike further compared the situation to U.S. politics, mentioning how Americans have been willing to make controversial decisions if they believe it serves their country’s interests. In 2023, he argued, Nigerians had heard Atiku’s proposals and ultimately decided to “say thank you, but it will not work.”
Wike’s remarks underscore internal tensions within the PDP as members debate their future leadership and approach to the upcoming 2027 elections. While Atiku continues to criticize the current administration, Wike’s statements suggest that some within the PDP may be reluctant to back his recurring bids for the presidency. Instead, Wike’s comments indicate a potential desire within the party for a new direction and leadership that resonates more effectively with the Nigerian electorate.
