By MUHAMMAD DANBABA
Wike Responds to Atiku’s Criticism with Strong Remarks
The ongoing political rivalry between Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), intensified on Saturday. Wike fired back at Atiku’s comments regarding the recent local government elections in Rivers State, where Atiku claimed the people had rejected Wike.
Background of the Dispute
The tension arose after Atiku remarked on his X handle about the electoral results in Rivers, suggesting that they indicated a lack of support for Wike. In response, Wike clarified that his faction did not contest the local government elections, stating, “We never contested the local government elections. Did we contest? Did we pick forms?”
Wike’s Counterargument
Wike continued to challenge Atiku’s assertions, saying, “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.” His remarks underscore the ongoing rivalry and highlight the personal nature of their political exchanges.
Implications of the Rivalry
This exchange reflects the broader dynamics within the PDP and the competitive nature of Nigerian politics, where past electoral failures are often used as ammunition in political discourse. Wike’s comments aim to undermine Atiku’s credibility while reinforcing his own position amid the party’s internal conflicts.
Conclusion
As the political rivalry continues, both figures are likely to engage in further exchanges as they navigate their respective roles within the PDP and the larger political landscape in Nigeria. The stakes remain high as both leaders seek to solidify their influence and support among their constituents.
