FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared that he will not step aside and allow former Vice President Atiku Abubakar a free run at the 2027 presidential election. Wike made the declaration on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at his monthly media parley with selected journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital.
Wike's Political Resolve Against Atiku
The former Rivers State governor framed his political resolve in plain terms, directing a question at those who expected him to remain on the sidelines. "You want me to fold my hands for Atiku Abubakar to come and win the election?" Wike said.
As reported by Leadership, Wike also put to rest growing speculation that his repeated trips to Rivers State signalled an intention to leave Abuja for good. He said the frequency of his appearances in Rivers State was driven by the need to personally monitor political developments on the ground rather than rely on assurances from political allies.
"I don't want to sit in Abuja, and candidates are saying, 'Oh, don't bother, everything is going on well'. I have to come home and see that all those things are going on. 'Have you done this? What about this?'" he said.
Minister Dismisses Relocation Rumours
Wike was firm in separating his political activity from his duties as FCT minister, saying the two were not in conflict. "It's not about relocating; it's about coming home to relate with the people and talk to them, and also do those things you know how to do very well, not to take chances. So, I'm not relocating. I don't need to relocate, but I also have to be in touch with my people so that I don't just sit in Abuja and then say that everything is going on well there," the minister said.
He pointed to deep personal roots in Rivers State as another reason for his regular presence there. The former governor noted that his parents were still alive and that his family and political networks remained firmly tied to the state. Those factors, he argued, made his visits both natural and necessary as 2027 approaches.
Wike's Role in Osun Election Aftermath
Meanwhile, Legit.ng also reported that Wike said he personally called Governor Ademola Adeleke and instructed him to publicly thank President Tinubu for a free and fair election. The revelation sparked strong reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning who truly has the power to determine election outcomes.
