Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has advised former President Goodluck Jonathan against re-entering the presidential race in 2027.
During a media interaction in Abuja on Monday, Wike expressed his belief that Jonathan should continue his role as a respected statesman rather than seek another term in office.
Despite ongoing speculation about Jonathan potentially contesting for the presidency again, particularly on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the ex-president has remained silent on the issue.
“I know Jonathan very well. He enjoys being respected internationally as a statesman, and I believe he will continue in that role,” Wike stated.
The minister added that the politicians pushing for Jonathan’s candidacy are the same individuals who betrayed him during the 2015 elections.
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He pointedly asked, “What strength do these people have? Were they not the same individuals who worked against him in 2015?”
Wike cautioned that the PDP must be careful about decisions that could exacerbate its internal divisions.
“For Christ’s sake, nobody should create problems for the party. When you cause problems, you are the one to blame,” he stressed.
Wike Warns Against Peter Obi’s Return to PDP
Wike also addressed the growing speculation regarding former Anambra Governor Peter Obi’s potential return to the PDP. He argued that bringing Obi back would be disastrous for the party, pointing out that the former governor had previously described the PDP as “rotten”.
“Obi was abusing the party, saying it is rotten. So now the party is suddenly good enough for him to come and contest on its platform?” Wike asked rhetorically.
The minister criticised the idea of reopening the PDP doors to someone who had once publicly disparaged the organisation.
“That kind of ambition can make people even go to Satan’s house,” Wike remarked.
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He warned that any attempt to reintegrate Obi would further damage the PDP, saying, “Anybody suggesting that Obi should return is entitled to their opinion. But if you want to destroy this party, then bring Obi back.”
Obi left the PDP just days before the 2023 presidential primary, citing “recent developments in the party” that he felt did not allow for “constructive contributions”.
He later joined the Labour Party (LP), where he became the party’s presidential candidate. Recently, Obi aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
Wike Denies Presidential Ambitions Against Tinubu
On his own political aspirations, Wike firmly reiterated that he has no intentions of contesting the presidency against President Bola Tinubu in 2027, despite the ongoing debate over zoning and southern candidates.
“I will not run,” Wike asserted. “I have integrity, and I have character. My position is clear. There is no way my appointer is there, and we are saying he should run, and then I turn around and say I want to contest?”
Wike’s stance reflects his commitment to his current role and his loyalty to President Tinubu, marking his position as one of integrity and political consistency.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
