Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has sharply criticized leaders of the opposition coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, accusing them of pursuing personal interests rather than genuinely seeking to help Nigeria.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving service for completed FCT projects on Sunday, Wike questioned the credibility of opposition figures who have frequently switched political parties over the years.
Pattern of Party Switching
“How can Nigerians not be angry with you?” Wike asked. “In 1999, you were in this party. In 2006, in 2014, you moved to another party. In 2019, you came back to another party. Now, in 2025, you have moved to another party? To rescue whom? You want to rescue your stomach; it’s not Nigerians you want to rescue.”
Criticism of Peter Obi’s Governance Record
The minister specifically targeted Peter Obi’s tenure as Anambra State governor, highlighting his failure to conduct local government elections during his eight-year tenure.
“Some of you have sympathy for somebody you don’t know. You say Peter Obi will be President. President where? For eight years, he was governor; he never conducted local government elections. That is what you describe as democracy. Only you were the governor and chairman of the local governments,” Wike stated.
Broader Accusations Against Opposition Leaders
Wike extended his criticism to other former officials, alleging they failed to deliver basic infrastructure and services during their tenures in various government positions. He cited examples of officials who served as Senate President, Speaker, Governor, and various ministers but allegedly failed to address fundamental issues affecting Nigerians.
The minister particularly criticized a former Transportation Minister for accumulating significant debt to China, calling it a burden on Nigeria’s future, and a former Attorney General for the country’s persistent corruption challenges.
Call for Support of Current Administration
Rather than supporting opposition figures, Wike urged Christians to remain patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration and continue praying for its success.
“All I appeal to the church, just be patient and continue to pray for Mr. President, for the administration. Forget about people who have lost their chances to put Nigeria right. They won’t have the chance again,” he said.
About the Opposition Coalition
The coalition Wike referenced has adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political platform for the 2027 general elections. Key figures include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Senate President David Mark.
