Wike Blasts Opposition Coalition, Accuses Leaders of Self-Interest Over National Welfare
By Abiola Olawale
Minister’s Fiery Outburst Targets Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Mark
In a scathing verbal attack, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has launched fresh criticism against prominent opposition figures, dismissing their newly formed political coalition as self-serving rather than nationalistic. The minister’s comments came during a Thanksgiving service marking the completion of projects under his administration.
Wike specifically targeted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. His remarks represent the latest escalation in Nigeria’s increasingly heated political climate ahead of the 2027 elections.
“You Want to Rescue Your Stomach, Not Nigerians” – Wike
The outspoken minister questioned the credibility of opposition leaders, stating: “How can Nigerians not be angry with you? In 1999, you were at this party. In 2006, you moved to another. In 2014, another switch. Now in 2025, you’ve moved again? To rescue whom? You want to rescue your stomach; it’s not Nigerians you want to rescue.”
Wike’s criticism focused on what he characterized as political inconsistency and poor performance during previous tenures in office. He challenged Peter Obi’s democratic credentials, asking: “For eight years as governor, he never conducted local government elections. That’s what you describe as democracy?”
Minister Highlights Infrastructure Failures
The FCT minister pointed to specific infrastructure shortcomings during opposition leaders’ previous administrations:
“I was Senate President for eight years and couldn’t provide a road to my local government. I’d fly a helicopter there. Now you say you want to rescue Nigeria? Which Nigeria?”
Wike also targeted former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi: “In eight years, you borrowed so much from China, indebting our future. Nigerians are angry with you.”
The minister contrasted these past performances with current administrative improvements, particularly in passport processing: “Before, getting a passport took months. Now, a young boy has fixed it – you get yours in hours.”
Opposition Coalition Gains Momentum
The New Diplomat reports these comments follow the opposition’s adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their platform for the 2027 elections. The ADC recently underwent leadership changes, with General David Mark appointed interim National Chairman and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola as interim National Secretary.
The coalition appears to be resonating with Nigerians dissatisfied with current economic challenges, including rising inflation, worsening insecurity, and mounting national debt. A recent show of support for Aregbesola in Lagos demonstrated growing momentum, with reports of traditional rulers suspending chiefs who joined welcoming crowds.
As political tensions rise, Wike’s remarks signal intensifying rhetoric between Nigeria’s ruling and opposition factions. The coming months will test whether the ADC coalition can translate public dissatisfaction into electoral success against established political forces.
Full credit to the original publisher: The New Diplomat