Wike has declared that Peter Obi will “never be President” amid rising opposition talks and coalition formation against Tinubu.
In a fiery declaration that has sparked fresh political tension, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has boldly declared that Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, will never become Nigeria’s President.
Wike made the explosive remark on Sunday during a Thanksgiving service at St. James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, held to celebrate the completion of key projects commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Taking direct aim at Obi’s rising political presence, Wike said: “They say Peter Obi will be President, President where? Out of emotion, most of you are just following someone you don’t know.”
He dismissed Obi’s credibility, claiming the former Anambra State governor’s popularity is built on sentiment rather than substance.
“For eight years, Obi was a governor but never conducted a single local government election. Now he says democracy isn’t working, but it worked during his time,” Wike stated.
He further accused Obi of centralizing power in Anambra, adding, “Only Obi was governor and chairman of all the local governments in Anambra State at the same time. His time has passed, he won’t have the opportunity again.”
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that Wike’s harsh comments come just days after Obi reportedly submitted a formal proposal for a single four-year presidential term to an emerging opposition mega coalition. The coalition includes heavyweight figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and David Mark.
According to Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, the proposal has been received and is under consideration by the high-level opposition alliance.
Wike’s outburst may signal deeper fractures within Nigeria’s shifting political landscape as alliances form ahead of the 2027 general election. Obi, whose 2023 presidential bid galvanized millions of young voters, is yet to respond publicly to Wike’s attack.