Wike to Opposition: Only a Reformed PDP Can Challenge Tinubu in 2027
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has dismissed the growing political coalition against President Bola Tinubu, insisting that only a united and restructured Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stands a real chance in the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a media chat in Abuja on Thursday, Wike criticised the motives of key figures in the newly formed opposition coalition, accusing them of hypocrisy and political opportunism. According to him, many of them had opportunities to transform the country but failed.
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“I listened to David Mark talking about rescuing Nigeria and how Nigerians are angry. But where was that concern when he was Senate President for eight years?” Wike asked. “There was no single project in his hometown, Otukpo, during his tenure. Nigerians weren’t angry then?”
Wike didn’t stop there. He also took jabs at former ministers and governors such as Rotimi Amaechi, Seriake Dickson, and Aminu Tambuwal, all of whom have joined the new coalition. He pointed out that these individuals held key positions during Nigeria’s difficult years and contributed to its problems.
“Was it Tinubu’s administration that brought about banditry? Amaechi was Minister of Transportation for eight years. Tambuwal was Speaker of the House and later governor. What did they do to ease the pain of Nigerians?” he questioned.
The former Rivers State governor emphasised that he would rather listen to political newcomers with fresh ideas than to those who’ve already had their turn at power and failed to deliver.
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“If someone who has never held office says he wants to fix Nigeria, I’ll be more open to that. But when those who have been at the centre of power are now trying to paint themselves as saviours, it becomes clear that the goal is just to return to power,” he said.
Wike also defended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, acknowledging that while they are difficult, they are necessary for long-term growth. “Some of Tinubu’s decisions may be tough, but imagine where we would be if they weren’t taken,” he said.
He noted improvements in federal allocations to states and infrastructural development in the FCT as examples of the current government’s efforts.
Turning to the PDP, Wike said that despite its internal issues, the party remains the only viable opposition force.
“The PDP still has the structure and nationwide presence to take on the APC, but only if it puts its house in order,” he said. “This talk of a coalition? It’s just noise. A united PDP is the real threat.”
Wike also criticised Nigerian voters for often making decisions based on ethnic and religious sentiments rather than competence.
“You blame politicians, but how do you vote? On religion. On ethnicity. Not performance,” he concluded.