Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has declared that opposition parties have no chance of defeating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, advising them to begin mourning their anticipated loss. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, August 18, Wike dismissed any possibility of an opposition victory, stating that their only recourse is to start crying now.
Wike's Bold Declaration at Abuja Press Conference
During the press briefing, Wike emphasized that the opposition cannot unseat Tinubu in January 2027, regardless of their strategies. He asserted that any plans to challenge the president electorally are futile, and opposition members should focus on reorganizing themselves after the election instead.
“While the winning man will be scoring over 500,000 votes, the second person scored over 400,000; the third person will be scoring 17,000? A party of the former governor? Then when it gets to the national election, that is where the party will win?” Wike queried, highlighting the electoral disparities he believes favor the ruling party.
Opposition Advised to 'Start Crying'
The minister reiterated that the opposition's only immediate option is to cry, as they lack the capacity to win. “Try, they know that the only thing they can do now is to start crying, but if it’s to win the election, no, they can’t win,” he stated, adding that any meaningful planning should be deferred until after 2027.
Wike further elaborated: “Maybe after now they can start planning and putting their house in order, but if it’s this 2027 election against Tinubu, no, forget it, it’s over.” He dismissed any notion of a competitive race, urging critics to stop referring to a viable opposition.
Wike's Role in Weakening Opposition
In a pointed remark, Wike took personal credit for undermining opposition strength, saying, “How you choose leaders is what attempts or steps are you making to solve problems, so don’t be talking about opposition; say depleted opposition, which I’m one of those that depleted them.”
The press conference, held in the nation's capital, underscores the growing confidence within the ruling camp ahead of the next election cycle. Wike's comments signal a firm stance against any opposition resurgence, positioning Tinubu as the inevitable winner in 2027.
