As political activity heats up ahead of the 2027 elections, a fresh war of words has erupted within Nigeria’s opposition. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, of betraying the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and undermining national interests.
Wike Rejects Coalition, Questions Intentions
Wike sparked the controversy during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday. He criticized the new opposition coalition involving Atiku, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai. The coalition, launched in March, aims to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
Wike dismissed it as selfish. “Everybody wants to be president. No one wants to rebuild the party,” he said. He claimed the coalition’s leaders had abandoned the PDP’s internal challenges and focused only on their ambitions.
Atiku’s Camp Fires Back
Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, swiftly responded. He accused Wike of hypocrisy and betrayal. “Wike works with the APC to weaken the PDP,” Ibe said. “He has no moral standing to speak about party loyalty.”
Ibe also slammed Wike’s political activities in Rivers State. He alleged that Wike is using his influence in Abuja to control the state’s affairs and destabilize its leadership.
Despite the backlash, Atiku’s team stands by the coalition. They described it as a platform for frustrated Nigerians seeking change. “This movement is not about Atiku, Obi, or El-Rufai,” Ibe explained. “It’s about giving Nigerians a chance to reclaim their country.”
As 2027 approaches, the PDP faces serious internal divisions. The clash between Atiku and Wike reveals deeper challenges in building a united opposition. Whether this coalition can overcome personal rivalries and confront the APC remains uncertain.
