A senior aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched a scathing attack on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stating that it is too late for him to acquire the integrity and character he allegedly lacks.
Lere Olayinka, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, made the remark while reacting to a statement from Atiku’s media office, which claimed that the 2023 vice-presidential selection committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was rejected based on issues of character.
According to Olayinka, no one understands Atiku better than former President Olusegun Obasanjo, under whom he served as vice president for eight years. He referenced Obasanjo’s book, My Watch, where the ex-president allegedly criticized Atiku’s moral standing and leadership qualities.
Wike Rejected Atiku’s Offer Over Integrity Concerns
“One of the reasons Wike initially rejected Atiku’s offer to be his running mate was due to concerns over his character and integrity. It took significant persuasion before Wike reconsidered,” Olayinka stated.
He accused Atiku of hypocrisy, alleging that he disregarded the PDP selection committee’s recommendation while falsely claiming he followed its decision in picking Delta State’s former governor, Ifeanyi Okowa.
Atiku’s Claims Exposed
“Atiku was exposed when his claim that Okowa topped the committee’s list turned out to be false. Now, he is preaching about character and integrity, qualities he himself lacks,” Olayinka added.
Quoting from Obasanjo’s book, Olayinka reiterated the former president’s harsh assessment of Atiku, describing him as someone with a “propensity for corruption, disloyalty, and poor judgment.” He noted that Atiku has never publicly refuted those claims.
Wike Stands By His Decisions
He further contrasted Wike’s straightforward political stance with Atiku’s, accusing the former vice president of inconsistency and desperation to become president at all costs.
“Atiku should start being truthful and reliable, especially at his age. Everything shouldn’t be about desperate ambition,” Olayinka concluded.
