Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), has dismissed a claim by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that he could face political consequences if President Bola Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election.
Wike had said during a media parley that his continued support for Tinubu’s re-election could make him a target if the President is defeated, specifically mentioning Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He also maintained that he had no regrets about backing Tinubu. (Channels Television)
Responding to the claim, Obi said he would not enter government with the intention of pursuing political opponents or settling personal scores, stressing that his priority would be the responsibilities of governing Nigeria.
He said, “In fact, somebody told me that Wike said if I become president, he will be one of the first victims. I cannot campaign to be president only to start pursuing people. That will be a waste of Nigerian time.
“So, if I go there and leave my job, close the shop, which is Nigeria, and start pursuing people who didn’t want me or did wrong against me, it will be a mitigated disaster. I won’t be part of it. I want to go into office and focus on the job. I’m not against anybody.
“Today, they are in one place or the other where they think is better. I wish them well. For me, it is an opportunity to faithfully serve Nigeria by ensuring that the right things are done within the law and within the resources we have, and that we start doing things properly.”
Obi’s response comes amid heightened political realignments and public exchanges among leading political figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike, who remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has openly backed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite his continued membership of the opposition party. His comments about possible repercussions if Tinubu loses have been reported as part of his explanation for his strong support for the President’s re-election. (Premium Times)
Obi, meanwhile, used his response to emphasise that his stated objective in seeking the presidency would be governance rather than retaliation against political opponents.
He said his focus would be on delivering public service within the law and working with the resources available to government, regardless of the political positions taken by individuals or groups.
The exchange comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with parties and political figures increasingly outlining their positions and alliances ahead of the contest.
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