Uzodinma’s senatorial bid: Wike denies involvement in court ruling
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has refuted claims of his involvement in a Federal High Court ruling that nullified the recognition of Hope Uzodinma as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Imo-West senatorial district in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
During a media briefing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, Wike described the allegations connecting him to the court’s decision as “mischievous.”
While denying participation in the legal proceedings, Wike acknowledged his disagreement with Uzodinma regarding the Rainbow Coalition, a political alliance supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
“I didn’t go to court; I’m not from APC,” Wike stated. He added that Uzodinma had publicly warned his supporters against the coalition just a day before the judgment, saying, “If I see you I’ll collect the vehicle.” He questioned how he could be implicated in the ruling.
Wike urged Uzodinma to clarify his opposition to the Rainbow Coalition, asking, “What is Hope Uzodinma afraid of in the Rainbow Coalition?” He emphasized that the coalition’s main goal is to ensure Tinubu’s success in the 2027 presidential election, while considerations such as zoning will influence decisions at the National Assembly level.
Despite their political differences, Wike expressed support for his relationship with former Imo Governor Rochas Okorocha, stating he would not harm friendships due to political affiliations.
Addressing the 2027 presidential race, Wike dismissed the candidacy of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who is running as the vice-presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress. He criticized Amaechi’s record in office, citing accusations of inadequate project delivery and expenditure management.
“It’ll be difficult no matter how you look at it,” Wike remarked regarding Amaechi’s prospects, adding that his candidacy is “dead on arrival.”
Wike also defended his political strategy, which involves candidates from both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He noted that he has allocated 13 seats to the APC and three to the PDP as a result of consultations over the past two years, ensuring that his supporters are informed about their roles in this arrangement.
“Leadership is about cascading impact down to your people,” he concluded.
