Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has reignited political arguments ahead of the 2027 general election, questioning the past performances of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
Wike believes their previous positions in government should come under public scrutiny as political parties and aspirants prepare for the next presidential contest.
The minister made his position known during a political gathering organised by the Rainbow Coalition in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday.
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His comments focused on the political records of Atiku and Amaechi, both of whom have been associated with discussions surrounding the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its potential presidential ambitions.
Wike Demands Atiku’s Scorecard From Obasanjo Administration
Wike questioned what Nigerians gained from Atiku’s eight-year service as vice-president during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Between 1999 and 2007, Atiku occupied a prominent position in the Federal Government, with responsibilities that included overseeing the privatisation of government-owned enterprises.
According to Wike, the former vice-president should explain the major achievements of that period and demonstrate how his responsibilities translated into meaningful benefits for Nigerians.
The FCT minister also brought up Obasanjo’s past disagreements with Atiku, particularly the former president’s reported regret over choosing him as his running mate.
Wike argued that Nigerians should consider these issues when assessing Atiku’s renewed interest in becoming president.
He further reminded the audience that he had previously challenged Atiku during a presidential primary election.
Amaechi’s Eight-Year Governorship Also Comes Under Scrutiny
Wike extended his criticism to Amaechi, whose administration governed Rivers State from 2007 to 2015.
Rather than accepting the former governor’s political credentials without questions, the minister demanded explanations over several projects and financial transactions allegedly undertaken during his time in office.
He specifically questioned the reported expenditure of $10 million on mosquito control, the allocation of $39 million for a proposed specialist hospital and the N68 billion reportedly spent on a monorail project.
Another issue raised by Wike concerned the reported $308 million sale of a gas turbine in December 2014.
He challenged those associated with the former administration to account for the proceeds and explain how the funds were utilised.
The allegations were made during the political gathering. However, they had not been independently established in the report, and Amaechi’s response was not available.
Minister Says Past Performance Should Determine Political Support
Wike maintained that Nigerians should demand accountability from politicians seeking elective positions, insisting that previous public service records matter when determining who deserves their support.
His remarks come as political realignments and discussions over possible presidential candidates continue ahead of the 2027 elections.
The minister’s comments have also brought renewed attention to the political credentials of some prominent figures linked to the opposition’s efforts to challenge the ruling party.
Rivers Community Highlights Wike’s Previous Projects
Beyond the political exchanges, the gathering featured expressions of support for Wike from community representatives.
Chimereze Nworgo, Zonal Director of the Post-Primary Schools Board, highlighted several projects associated with Wike’s tenure as Rivers State governor.
He mentioned the Ogbia-Nembe Road, improved transportation links, the establishment of a model secondary school and recognition of traditional institutions.
Nworgo also acknowledged Wike’s support for the political representation of people from Ogbia, including Ambassador Desmond Eji Akawu.
However, he appealed for further government interventions, particularly in road rehabilitation, healthcare facilities, school renovation and youth employment.
He also called for more opportunities for Ogbia indigenes in political appointments at the state and federal levels.
The community representative explained that although several development needs remained unresolved, the people were willing to maintain their relationship with Wike in pursuit of further progress.
Meanwhile, Oyigbo Local Government Chairman Okechukwu Nwaogu presented a gift to the minister on behalf of the council in recognition of his position as FCT minister and leader of the Rainbow Coalition.
