Wike Challenges Nigerians to Scrutinise Atiku’s Record Ahead of 2027 Election

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has challenged Nigerians to examine the record of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar before deciding whether to support his presidential ambition in the 2027 general elections.

Wike made the call on Thursday during a gathering of the Rainbow Coalition in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he questioned Atiku’s performance during his eight years as vice-president under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The minister argued that Atiku’s record in public office should be a major consideration in assessing his suitability for the presidency, rather than focusing solely on his repeated attempts to lead the country.

Wike recalled that Atiku served as vice-president from 1999 to 2007 and played a prominent role in the administration, particularly in the federal government’s privatisation programme.

“Atiku served as vice-president from 1999 to 2007. How many years? He was not merely a vice-president, but a powerful vice-president. He oversaw privatisation and all matters pertaining to government-owned companies and industries,” Wike said.

He questioned the impact of Atiku’s involvement in the administration, challenging Nigerians to identify the outcomes of his time in office.

“Can anybody tell me, do you see the impact of Atiku Abubakar? No!” he asked.

Wike also referred to past criticisms by Obasanjo, who had publicly expressed regret over his decision to support Atiku’s emergence as vice-president.

The FCT minister argued that Obasanjo’s assessment of their political relationship should form part of the discussion about Atiku’s record and his renewed presidential ambition.

He urged Nigerians to scrutinise the performance of politicians seeking public office and assess their achievements before deciding whether to entrust them with greater responsibility.

The minister’s remarks come amid intensifying political exchanges ahead of the 2027 elections, with supporters of President Bola Tinubu and opposition figures trading criticisms over their respective records in public office.

Atiku, who is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has remained a prominent opposition figure and a recurring contender in Nigeria’s presidential elections.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has declared support for Tinubu’s re-election and has been involved in mobilising politicians from different parties through the Rainbow Coalition.

The latest comments reflect the growing focus on candidates’ past records and experience as political parties and their supporters prepare for the 2027 presidential contest.