The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has firmly denied reports suggesting that he is under pressure from certain Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders to contest the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement on Saturday, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, described the speculation as “a fabricated story from idle minds seeking to create political tension.”
According to Olayinka, the report published by an online platform was an attempt to sow discord and drag the Minister into unnecessary controversy. He clarified that no meeting was ever held to persuade Wike to run for president, adding that “as far as Wike is concerned, it is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu till 2031.”
He stated, “Wike does not operate in secrecy. He stands by his words and actions. It is unfortunate that some individuals still resort to petty blackmail and falsehood to stay relevant. The Minister’s loyalty and political direction are clear — he is fully aligned with President Tinubu’s administration.”
Clarifying the details of the alleged PDP meeting, Olayinka explained that the only meeting held on August 20, 2025, involved southern PDP stakeholders who met to discuss internal party matters relating to zonal leadership, not the 2027 presidency.
He added that the outcome of that meeting was made public in a statement jointly signed by several PDP leaders from the South-East and South-South regions, including state chairmen, lawmakers, and former party executives.
Olayinka further emphasised that Wike remains focused on delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda in the FCT, stressing that “his priority is to implement President Tinubu’s vision of transforming Abuja into a modern, globally competitive capital city.”
