Wike Reveals Why He Withheld Support for Peter Obi in 2023 Presidential Election

Wike also referenced the tense political climate during the 2023 elections, including the naira redesign policy and widespread fuel scarcity. He noted that these issues created significant hurdles for the then-presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu.

Abuja, Nigeria – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has disclosed the reason he declined to back Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the 2023 general elections, citing concerns over Obi’s electability.

Speaking during a press conference on Friday in Abuja, Wike described Obi as a “social media candidate,” insisting he never saw the former Anambra governor as a serious contender for the presidency. He argued that popularity on the internet does not translate into actual political victory in Nigeria.

“No, he has no chance to win the election,” Wike said. “I don’t align with those kinds of candidates who are only popular on social media. That’s not how real politics works.”

The former Rivers State governor explained that his political decisions are based on pragmatic assessments of candidates’ chances, rather than sentimental support. He said politicians must consider various dynamics when backing a candidate, especially in a country as complex as Nigeria.

“As a politician, I analyse the chances of each candidate before taking a stand,” he stated. “In this country, it’s not just about who is most qualified or who the people think is best. There are many factors at play.”

Wike also referenced the tense political climate during the 2023 elections, including the naira redesign policy and widespread fuel scarcity. He noted that these issues created significant hurdles for the then-presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu.

“It was a very turbulent period for Tinubu to contest that election,” Wike said. “This was a situation where policies from the ruling party’s administration were hurting the campaign. Yet, he pulled through.”

Commending President Tinubu for his resilience, Wike praised his political savvy and experience in navigating the obstacles thrown at him during the election season.

“That’s how you know people who understand the game. First, God was on his side. Second, he knows what it takes to win an election. You must give that to him,” he concluded.