The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has shed light on his decision not to support Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the 2023 general elections.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike revealed that he did not view Obi as a strong contender in the race.
According to him, the Labour Party candidate lacked the political structure and grassroots support needed to secure a nationwide victory.
“He didn’t stand a chance of winning,” Wike said. “I don’t align myself with candidates who exist mostly on social media. That’s not how elections are won.”
Wike, known for his blunt political commentary, stressed that his support is always guided by a careful assessment of a candidate’s chances.
He maintained that online popularity does not automatically translate into electoral success.
“As a politician, I evaluate who is most likely to win,” he stated. “In Nigeria, many factors influence electoral outcomes beyond just qualifications or online visibility.”
He also spoke about the hurdles that affected the 2023 general elections, particularly the impact of the controversial naira redesign and fuel scarcity, which he said made the process even more difficult for candidates.
“It was a tough period for Tinubu to emerge victorious,” Wike noted. “Policies implemented during that time created serious challenges, and most people were afraid to speak the truth.”
Despite those obstacles, Wike praised President Bola Tinubu for overcoming the odds and winning the election, attributing the victory to political savvy and divine favour.
“Winning an election isn’t just about being the best on paper,” he said. “There are those who understand the game, and Tinubu is one of them. He had the experience, the strategy—and above all, God on his side.”