PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi as political gamblers.
Wike accused them of pursuing presidential ambitions without a clear vision for Nigeria. He made the remarks on Friday during a Rainbow Coalition town hall meeting in Ayama, Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Attack
The minister spoke before traditional rulers, political leaders, academics, women, and youths. He urged Nigerians to assess the records of presidential candidates rather than rely on their campaign promises. He particularly criticised Atiku over his repeated attempts to occupy the nation’s highest political office.
“Don’t trust your destiny to political gamblers. Don’t trust your destiny to ‘kalokalo’ people. These people are political gamblers, and you cannot give your destiny to ‘kalokalo’ people; you cannot hand over your destiny to political gamblers. Give your destiny to somebody we know, who has tried all this, and he has done it,” Wike said.
Defending His Record
Wike also defended his tenure as Rivers State governor. He challenged his predecessors to identify projects they executed in Abua/Odual. He insisted that his administration had contributed significantly to the area’s development.
He cited road infrastructure and improved connectivity as some of the achievements of his administration. “I challenge any other person who was governor to come to Abua/Odual and point out what he or she did for the people of Abua/Odual,” he said.
Call for Unity
The former governor called on political leaders and stakeholders in the area to reconcile their differences. He said they must mobilise support ahead of the 2027 general elections. He urged party members to close ranks and warned against internal divisions.
“We don’t want to lose one vote in this January 16, 2027, general election. I want all of us to win with a margin that will surprise everybody,” he said.
Support for Tinubu
The FCT minister also expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. He praised the administration for what he described as efforts to stabilise critical sectors of the economy and restore industrial harmony in tertiary institutions.
What This Means
Wike’s remarks are the latest in a series of attacks on opposition figures. They highlight the deep divisions in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
The comments also underscore Wike’s commitment to Tinubu’s re-election bid. Despite being a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Wike has consistently supported the President.
What Happens Next
The 2027 elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027. Political tensions are expected to intensify as parties and candidates intensify their campaigns. For now, Wike’s message is clear: he believes the opposition lacks the vision to lead Nigeria.
