Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of contesting against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
In a recent interview with BBC News Pidgin, Wike dismissed speculations linking his recent political statements to presidential ambitions.
“I will not contest. Why will I contest against someone I’m working for?” Wike said, reiterating his loyalty to President Tinubu and the current administration.
The former Rivers State governor had recently called on his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South — a move that triggered speculation about a potential face-off with Tinubu. But Wike was unequivocal: “I will not contest again. I cannot contest against someone I am working with. Who will win except him?”
On the PDP’s zoning decision, Wike said, “They said they would zone it to the South, let them zone first. When we get to the bridge, we will know how to cross it.”
Wike also addressed the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, denying any rift with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. “That one is not a battle. He (Fubara) is my boy, he is my son, why will I fight with him?” he said.
According to Wike, the real conflict lies with those manipulating the governor behind the scenes. “I’m only fighting against people who want to steal what they did not work for. Now, they are ashamed because they are being defeated. They are the ones pushing Fubara,” he alleged.
What you should know
Nyesom Wike has firmly ruled out a 2027 presidential bid, declaring unwavering support for President Tinubu.
He dismissed reports of a feud with Governor Fubara, instead blaming political actors he says are exploiting the governor.
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