Wike: Atiku’s PDP Chances for 2027 Are Slim

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismisses Atiku Abubakar’s potential in the upcoming PDP primaries, citing repeated rejection by Nigerians

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has cast doubt on Atiku Abubakar’s chances in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 election. In a recent live media interview, Wike confidently dismissed Atiku’s prospects, asserting that “Atiku’s chances in PDP 2027” are practically nonexistent.

Wike pointed out that Atiku, who served as the PDP presidential candidate in 2023, has previously outlined his vision for Nigeria, but “Nigerians rejected it.” According to Wike, Atiku’s past proposals didn’t resonate with voters, leaving him with little support within PDP for another run in 2027.

Atiku, the former Vice President, has stated that he would have taken a different approach than President Bola Tinubu if he had won the last election, suggesting that his governance could have alleviated Nigeria’s current challenges. But, Wike highlighted that “Atiku’s chances in PDP 2027” won’t be boosted by these statements. He questioned the logic of supporting the same candidate repeatedly, asking rhetorically, “How can we keep fielding one man for years?”

Drawing parallels to political events in the United States, Wike emphasized that the rejection wasn’t personal but rather a collective decision by Nigerians. He asserted that “Atiku’s chances in PDP 2027” are not likely to change simply because he has expressed a willingness to try again. Wike concluded, “Nigerians heard his message, yet decided he was not the right choice.”

By using “Atiku’s chances in PDP 2027” as a focal point, Wike’s statements reflect his firm belief that a new candidate may be essential for the party’s success.