Imo, Kwara govs at ‘war’with me — Wike
Imo, Kwara Governors Accused of Betrayal by Wike
FCT Minister Discusses Political Maneuvering Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Omeiza Ajayi & Daniel Abia
ABUJA — Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has claimed that the governors of Imo and Kwara states, Hope Uzodinma and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, are undermining him politically. Wike alleges that these governors have not reciprocated the support he previously extended to them.
In remarks during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Wike recounted his role in ensuring the electoral defeat of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election, expressing concern that either opponent could target him if President Bola Tinubu is not re-elected next year.
“I will not fold my arms and allow Atiku or Obi to win the 2027 presidential poll,” Wike stated. He also criticized Rotimi Amaechi, his predecessor as governor of Rivers State, claiming he is unfit for the vice presidency as Amaechi is the running mate to Atiku.
Wike further condemned the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for allegedly engaging in political activities during its recent national conference instead of maintaining its neutrality.
Accusations Against Kwara Governor
Wike accused Abdulrazaq of leading a campaign against him, including personal confrontations over alleged political sabotage. “The Kwara governor has been the one championing this campaign against me everywhere,” Wike said, adding that he had given a platform to disenchanted All Progressives Congress (APC) members by welcoming them into the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Despite these grievances, Wike emphasized his commitment to President Tinubu’s re-election and maintained that personal disputes would not deter his political objectives.
Response from Governors
When reached for comment, both Uzodinma and Abdulrazaq declined to address Wike’s allegations. Sources close to the APC governors described Wike’s proposed National Rainbow Coalition as a potential threat to Tinubu’s electoral support, suggesting it may create confusion among voters ahead of the upcoming elections.
Concerns about the coalition’s impact on the presidential race were reportedly discussed in a recent meeting among APC governors. The coalition, which has candidates contesting in various states, is perceived as having the potential to split the voting bloc that traditionally supports the APC.
Wike’s Strategy in Past Elections
Wike also elaborated on his strategic efforts in the 2023 elections, asserting that he and his allies aimed to undermine Atiku’s campaign by depriving him of key support bases. “We wanted to block Atiku,” he explained, clarifying that internal discord within the PDP heavily influenced the election’s outcome rather than external factors.
Political Risks and Predictions
Wike acknowledged the risks associated with his political commitments, declaring that he would be among the first to face consequences if Tinubu loses the upcoming election.
“I will be the first politician that I think they will come after,” he stated, reaffirming his intention to confront political adversaries despite the personal risk. He expressed confidence that Tinubu would secure at least 25 percent of the vote in every Northern state while predicting that Atiku would struggle to reach 10 percent in many Southern states.
Wike dismissed concerns about the impact of economic hardship on Tinubu’s re-election bid, asserting that such issues have historically not influenced voter behavior in Nigeria.
Criticism of Political Opponents and NBA
In his criticism of Amaechi, Wike argued that past actions taken by political figures should disqualify them from high office. He described Amaechi’s tenure as one that undermined judicial operations in Rivers State and chastised the NBA for losing sight of its foundational role as an impartial advocate for justice.
Wike concluded by addressing the recent fuel subsidy removal, asserting that President Tinubu does not have authority over the independent financial decisions of states regarding revenue allocations generated from this policy change.
“Now, it’s time for states to account for the funds they have got,” Wike said, commending Tinubu for his decisive action and emphasizing the need for transparency in the use of the newfound revenues.
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