Ruth NWORIE
After failing in his effort to become Nigerian president in 2023, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, appears to have revived the dream, although he has not said when he hopes to realise the dream.
But from his outburst on Monday during his media chat, Wike’s dream of becoming Nigeria’s president is still very much alive. In fact, he believes that the day he steps out for the position, Nigerians will queue behind him.
Even though he has faced many battles in the FCT where he reigns as minister, as well as in his home state, Rivers, and other parts of the country where he has tried to dictate what should happen politically, Wike believes that he remains widely accepted across the country and expressed confidence that he would secure massive support from Nigerians if he contests.
“Nigerians still love me, and if I run for the presidential election, they will vote for me massively,” he said.
The minister maintained that his political relevance and grassroots appeal remained intact, insisting that Nigerians still hold him in high regard, saying that his track record in governance and his bold political style have continued to resonate with citizens across party lines.
Wike reiterated that his support for President Tinubu was a strategic and well-considered decision, adding that he has consistently backed candidates who align with the President’s vision.
He also defended the security measures implemented during the recent FCT poll, dismissing allegations of disenfranchisement and interference.
In what appears to be a contradictory position, Wike who had openly campaigned for candidates of the APC during the just concluded Area Council elections in the FCT, said he moved round the FCT on election day to monitor proceedings because that he was not a candidate in the election and did not direct voters to support any particular party.
He advised aggrieved parties to seek redress at the election tribunal if dissatisfied with the outcome, expressing confidence that the results would remain unchanged.
He also renewed his attack on the senator representing the FCT, Ireti Kingibe, saying the senator would not return in 2027.
He added: “I told you in 2023 that even as a PDP man, I was going to work for the President. That is what I did because I believe, and rightly so, that the other parties did not present serious candidates.
“I have said several times that, as far as I am concerned, my party appears not to have learnt. That is why I said I was going to support Mr President for a second term.
“As a minister, my party did not consult me on the candidates they were going to present.
“I said I would support candidates who support Mr President for his re-election. It does not matter which party they belong to. If they support Mr President, then of course I will pitch my tent with them.
“Election is a process. It begins with the nomination of candidates, proceeds through campaigns, and then culminates in voting. It is not just about a particular day.
