ABUJA, NIGERIA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will resign his position if President Bola Tinubu loses the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State in the 2027 presidential election.
Wike made the statement on Wednesday while addressing members of the Apo Traders Association in Abuja. He linked his political support for Tinubu to his performance as FCT minister.
Support Across Party Lines
The former Rivers State governor said political support for Tinubu was not limited to members of the All Progressives Congress. He stressed that some Peoples Democratic Party members were also backing the President.
According to him, the political arrangement cuts across party affiliations. He described it as a “rainbow coalition.”
“I’ll tell you one thing about this place. We are doing rainbow coalition. Even people in the PDP, we are supporting Tinubu, right?” Wike said.
FCT and Rivers Connection
Wike explained that the FCT represented his place of work. Rivers State remained his home state. Consequently, he argued that failure to secure support for Tinubu in both areas would reflect on his performance in office.
“You see, FCT is where I work. Rivers State is my state, right? And if I cannot deliver where I work, then I am not worthy to be here,” he said.
Wike added that losing either the FCT or Rivers would raise questions about his effectiveness. It would also raise questions about whether he deserved to remain in his ministerial position.
Specific Deadline for Resignation
The minister said he was prepared to accept responsibility for the election outcome. He set a specific deadline for his proposed resignation.
He noted that the presidential election is scheduled for January 16, 2027. He declared that he would announce his resignation the following day if Tinubu failed to win both Rivers State and the FCT.
“I’m a practical person. The presidential election is on January 16, 2027. By January 17, 2027, I will announce my resignation as FCT Minister should the President lose in Rivers and FCT,” Wike added.
Political Implications
Wike’s declaration is a significant political statement. It underscores the importance of Rivers State and the FCT in the 2027 presidential election. Both areas are expected to be key battlegrounds.
The FCT has historically been a competitive territory. Rivers State is a major oil-producing state with significant political influence. Winning both would be crucial for Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Wike’s statement also highlights the complex political dynamics within the PDP. As a prominent PDP member, his support for Tinubu has been a source of tension within the party.
What Happens Next
The 2027 presidential election is scheduled for January 16, 2027. Wike has set a clear benchmark for his continued service as FCT minister. If Tinubu wins Rivers and the FCT, Wike will remain in office. If Tinubu loses, Wike will resign.
The declaration adds another layer of drama to Nigeria’s political landscape as the 2027 elections approach. For now, all eyes are on Rivers State and the FCT.
