Atiku, Obi, Amaechi are political gamblers, says Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticized former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, describing them as political gamblers.

Speaking on Friday during a town hall meeting in Abua-Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State, the minister accused the opposition figures of pursuing political power ahead of the 2027 general elections without a clear vision for the development of Nigeria.

Wike criticized the former vice president over his continual presidential ambition over the years, claiming that he is playing political as a game of chance motivated by personal interests.

“When somebody’s destiny is to be playing gamble, he can’t stop. So, that is why I urge him to continue to play gamble till 2031. You come out again and play gamble, kalokalo,” Wike stated.

The minister compared Atiku’s continual electoral ambition with the perseverance of former United States President Abraham Lincoln.

“Abraham Lincoln was different. He had a vision for America. I think we have no vision for Nigeria,” Wike said.

Wike challenged his predecessors to point out any development projects executed in Abua-Odual during their eight-year tenures.

He argued that political leaders must be assessed based on their performance and infrastructural track records.

“Since he was governor for eight years, are you telling me what you gave to Abua-Odual? No, tell me”, Wike.

The minister made reference to the road construction and critical infrastructure projects completed during his own tenure as Rivers State Governor from 2015 to 2023. He questioned the past allocation of public funds to certain projects, insisting that state resources must address the pressing needs of local communities.

Wike urged the people of Rivers State to align with the centre by voting for President Tinubu and all candidates backed by the Rainbow Coalition in the upcoming 2027 general elections.