Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has warned Goodluck Jonathan not to contest the 2027 presidency. He also cautioned the PDP against re-admitting Peter Obi, former Anambra governor and Labour Party candidate in 2023.
Speaking at a media conference in Abuja, Wike said Jonathan should maintain his global respect as a statesman. “Jonathan enjoys being respected internationally. I believe he will continue in that role,” he said.
He questioned the credibility of those backing Jonathan. “What is the strength of the people pushing Jonathan? Were they not the same people who worked against him in 2015?” Wike asked. He warned the PDP not to create internal problems that could harm the party’s unity.
Wike also opposed talks of bringing Obi back into the PDP. Reports suggest that some PDP leaders are courting Obi for a comeback. But Wike dismissed the idea, recalling Obi’s past criticism of the party. “Obi called the PDP rotten. How is it suddenly good enough for him to contest now?” he said. Wike argued that such a move would hurt the party’s integrity.
He warned, “If you want to destroy this party, then bring Obi back.” According to him, Obi’s ambition could damage the PDP beyond repair.
On the PDP’s planned national convention in November, set for Ibadan, Oyo State, Wike expressed concerns. He stressed that unresolved issues could derail the convention. “The problem is not the convention itself but the conflicts leading to it,” he explained. He urged members to resolve disputes to protect the party’s future.
Addressing his own political future, Wike ruled out contesting against President Tinubu in 2027. “I will not run. I have integrity. My appointer is in office. I cannot turn around to contest against him,” he stated.
He also criticized Obi’s one-term presidency promise. Supporting Nasir El-Rufai’s view, Wike called such pledges deceptive. “Don’t tell Nigerians you will run one term. When you get there, circumstances will decide whether you seek a second or third term,” he said.
