By Deborah Nnamdi
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has advised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to shelve any plans of contesting the 2027 presidential election, declaring that there is “no space” for him.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while speaking to journalists during an inspection of ongoing road projects in the Kuje Area Council. He suggested that Atiku should instead consider contesting in 2031.
“There is no space for him in 2027. He can wait till 2031. By then he will be 82. Even though he has said this is his last time, we will encourage him to run then,” Wike said.
The minister also criticised Atiku for his persistent attacks on the current administration, arguing that President Bola Tinubu has performed better than when Atiku previously held public office.
Reacting to allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that it was denied access to venues for its national convention in Abuja, Wike denied any involvement in the matter. The party had claimed it faced obstruction, including difficulties using the Rainbow Event Centre where it eventually held its convention.
Wike dismissed the claims, stating that he neither ordered the revocation of the venue’s licence nor interfered with the party’s activities. He added that an investigation had been launched to identify any official who may have been responsible.
“We will not allow people to just wake up and say the FCT Minister did this or that. I have directed my Chief of Staff to find out from the company which staff member interfered. I assure you we will get to the bottom of this,” he said.
The minister further urged the ADC to address its internal challenges rather than apportion blame, insisting the party was already heading for defeat.
“ADC should stop blaming people for their failure. Be assured, they will not win,” Wike added.
