2027: “Peter Obi Is Not Popular” — Wike Fires Back

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, enjoys widespread popularity ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he argued that public chants and attention surrounding Obi should not automatically be interpreted as evidence of broad electoral support.

According to Wike, while Obi may attract enthusiastic reactions from supporters at public events, such displays do not necessarily reflect his standing among the wider electorate.

He said, “To Obi, he is very popular each time people shout Obi-Obi. After the NBA Conference, where they shouted his name, I’m sure he went home satisfied. But in the real sense, he is not popular.”

Wike also spoke about the political dynamics that could shape the 2027 presidential election, particularly the possibility of President Bola Tinubu facing challenges in the northern region.

He argued that if Tinubu encounters significant opposition in the North, Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, could face similar resistance in the South.

The former Rivers State governor recalled the strategy adopted by the G5 governors during the 2023 presidential election, saying they were aware that Atiku was the major challenger to Tinubu and worked to weaken his support in the South.

“If Tinubu has problem in the North, Atiku will have in the South. This was the G5 governors’ strategy in 2023,” Wike said.

“We knew the man contesting against Tinubu in 2023 was Atiku. We wanted then Benue State governor to support Obi. We also told Cross River to support Obi and Oyo to support him. This was done to defeat Atiku.”

Wike’s comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major political figures positioning themselves and their respective alliances for the forthcoming contest.