The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in response to a recent statement by Atiku Abubakar, has claimed that the former Vice President has lost political relevance and has been rejected by Nigerians.
This exchange follows remarks made by Atiku in which he praised the people of Rivers State for their resilience and support during the state’s local government elections.
Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, took to his social media account on X (formerly Twitter) to commend the people of Rivers State.
He highlighted their steadfastness and determination, despite challenges faced during the elections. Atiku also praised the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his leadership and dedication to the people of the state.
He had said, “With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the state.
“From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing is greater than democracy.
“As prophesied, it has now been revealed that the citizens of Rivers are astute and resolute, unwavering in their rejection of any form of political oppression, harassment, or the machinations of self-serving godfathers.”
However, Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, was quick to react to these comments during a luncheon held in honor of the 10th Rivers State Assembly.
He dismissed Atiku’s claims and argued that Atiku had lost the trust of the Nigerian people, pointing to his repeated defeats in presidential elections, including the 2019 and 2023 contests.
Wike said, “We never contested the local government elections. Did we contest? Did we pick forms? I hear Atiku Abubakar say, ‘Oh, they have rejected me in Rivers State.’ Okay, assuming, though not conceding, that he has lost many times, Nigerians have also rejected him.
“If you say for an election we did not contest, never participated in, that it shows Nigerians have rejected us, fine. You that contested and failed woefully, Nigerians have rejected you, so pack up and go home.”
