Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has taken aim at Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike, accusing him of prioritizing personal interests over the welfare of Nigerians.
This criticism follows Wike’s recent remarks in Port Harcourt, where he labeled Atiku a “rejected politician.”
Wike’s comments were made in the context of Atiku’s response to the local government elections in Rivers State. Atiku highlighted that the elections demonstrated the citizens’ firm rejection of political oppression and the influence of self-serving godfathers.
In response, Wike dismissed Atiku’s claims, stating: “If you say for an election we did not contest, never participated in, that it shows Nigerians have rejected us, fine. You that contested and failed woefully, Nigerians have rejected you, so pack up and go home.”
Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, sharply countered Wike’s remarks, describing them as “a string of inanities, lacking substance and driven by personal grievances.” Atiku further suggested that if Wike truly believes Nigerians are satisfied with the current administration, it reflects a troubling self-absorption that prioritizes his own interests over those of the people.
Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the last election, emphasized that Wike is more focused on local issues in Rivers than on his ministerial responsibilities. He stated: “While he may seek to divert attention with his baseless rants, we remain focused on the genuine issues affecting Nigerians. It is clear that Mr. Wike is more concerned with self-interest than addressing the real challenges faced by the nation. In contrast, our commitment remains unwavering, centred on the welfare and progress of the people.”
Additionally, Atiku criticized Wike for his penchant for media spectacles, saying: “Mr. Wike appears to delight in conjuring fantasies, indulging in his imagination, and paying for live TV coverage to launch tirades against whomever he pleases. However, we shall not descend into the gutters where he feels at home. Instead, we prefer to rise above, maintaining our dignity while others revel in the mud.”
