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Nyesom Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has challenged Nigerians to scrutinise former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s record in government rather than focus on his repeated attempts to become president.

Wike questioned Atiku’s performance during his tenure as vice-president from 1999 to 2007, arguing that his role in the administration and the privatisation of government-owned enterprises should form part of the assessment of his political credentials.

The minister also described the proposed Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a “joint ticket of corruption” and predicted that it would fail to secure 25 per cent of the votes in Rivers State.

His remarks add to the growing political exchanges surrounding opposition figures and preparations for the 2027 general elections, as political leaders seek to challenge their rivals’ records and electoral strength.

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Atiku, who served as vice-president under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has contested the presidency multiple times. Wike’s criticism centres on his record during that administration and the privatisation programme pursued under their government.

The privatisation process involved the transfer or restructuring of several state-owned enterprises as Nigeria sought to reduce government participation in commercial activities and encourage private-sector investment.

Wike’s comments question whether Atiku’s experience in government should be viewed as an advantage or subjected to closer scrutiny by voters.

The minister also turned his attention to the political alliance involving Atiku and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, dismissing its prospects in Rivers State with his prediction that it would not attain the constitutionally significant 25 per cent vote threshold.

However, the electoral outcome will depend on voter preferences, party structures, campaign strategies and the political alliances that emerge ahead of the polls.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, remains an influential figure in the state’s political landscape. His relationship with Amaechi has been marked by political rivalry, while his own position within Nigeria’s broader political contest continues to attract attention.

The remarks are likely to intensify debate over the records of former officeholders, the credibility of political alliances and the prospects of opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling establishment.

Ihesiulo Grace Amarachi is a Nigerian journalist, writer and media professional serving as the Editor-in-Chief of TheTraffic.NG, a digital news platform covering national and international affairs. Her editorial interests span politics, business, aviation, health, technology, entertainment, sports and social development. She is committed to credible journalism, insightful reporting and compelling storytelling that informs public discourse and keeps readers abreast of important developments in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.