Wike Attacks Obi, Atiku, Says Tinubu Has Courage Others Lack
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday criticised Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, declaring that President Bola Tinubu remains the most capable leader to tackle Nigeria's economic and governance challenges.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike accused Obi of engaging in populist politics rather than demonstrating the leadership qualities required to govern the country.
"I know Peter Obi very well. What I don't like is people playing to the gallery. I have never celebrated my birthday in an IDP camp or a motherless babies' home simply because I wanted to become president. Governance is not about symbolism or public relations; it is about taking responsibility and making difficult decisions," the minister said.
Wike also cast doubt on Atiku Abubakar's suitability for the presidency, citing criticisms allegedly made by the former vice president's former principal.
"You heard what his former boss said about him. If the person who should naturally give you the strongest testimonial advises Nigerians to be careful, then people should reflect on that. What other recommendation do you need?" he asked.
The minister further faulted some television stations for inviting political commentators whom he described as lacking electoral credibility.
"I watch some television programmes and wonder about the people invited to discuss Nigeria's politics. Some contested elections and scored zero votes, yet they are presented as political authorities. That is unfortunate," he said.
Reaffirming his backing for President Tinubu, Wike argued that although the administration had not solved all of Nigeria's challenges, it had shown the political will to undertake difficult reforms that previous governments avoided.
He urged Nigerians to assess leaders by their ability to make hard decisions and deliver results rather than by political rhetoric or symbolic public appearances.
