The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he will actively work against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s bid to win the 2027 presidential election, as political activities increase ahead of the polls.
Wike made his position known on Wednesday during his monthly media parley in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he also addressed reports that his regular visits to the state meant he was preparing to leave Abuja.
The minister dismissed the relocation claim, explaining that his trips to Rivers State were aimed at staying connected with his people and keeping track of political developments in the state. He said remaining in Abuja would not prevent him from making regular visits home when necessary.
Wike said he would not sit back and allow political events in Rivers State to unfold without his involvement, especially with the 2027 general election approaching. He indicated that he intended to remain politically active and would not allow Atiku to secure victory without putting up a political fight.
According to him, his decision to visit Rivers frequently was also driven by the need to personally assess the situation on the ground rather than depend entirely on reports from political associates and candidates.
The former Rivers State governor said political leaders could assure him that everything was going well, but he preferred to visit the state himself, meet with his people and find out whether plans and activities were actually progressing as expected.
Wike maintained that his continued presence in Rivers State should not be mistaken for an intention to relocate from Abuja. He said his position as FCT minister remained his responsibility, while his connection with Rivers State remained important to him.
He also pointed to his family ties to the state, noting that his parents are still alive and that he has strong personal and political links with the people of Rivers.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, Wike said he would continue to monitor political developments in Rivers State and remain involved in activities concerning his political base. His comments show that he intends to play an active role in the political contest ahead of the presidential election.