Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has criticised politicians urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election, citing their betrayal of Jonathan during the 2015 polls.
Wike advised Jonathan to maintain his role as a statesman rather than return to active politics.
He made these remarks during a media parley on Monday in Abuja, amid ongoing speculation that Jonathan may contest the presidency again on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Jonathan has not made any public statement on the matter.
Wike said, “I know Jonathan well. He values his reputation as a statesman, and I believe he will continue in that role.”
He accused those advocating for Jonathan’s return of being the same individuals who worked against him in 2015.
“Those promoting Jonathan—what influence do they really have? Weren’t they the ones who opposed him in 2015?” he asked.
Wike stressed that the PDP should avoid actions that could further deepen internal divisions.
“For the sake of the party, no one should create problems. If you cause conflict, you should take responsibility,” he said.
Wike also dismissed calls to bring former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi back to the PDP, arguing that it would be counterproductive. He recalled that Obi once described the PDP as “rotten” and questioned the logic behind his possible return.
“Obi criticized the PDP, calling it corrupt. Now the party is suddenly good enough for him to run on its platform?” he asked.
He warned that welcoming back someone who publicly discredited the party would be a mistake.
“Such ambition can lead people down a destructive path,” he said.
Wike added that any attempt to bring Obi back into the PDP would only worsen the party’s condition.
“Anyone suggesting Obi’s return is entitled to their opinion, but if the aim is to destroy the PDP, then that’s the way to do it,” he stated.
Obi left the PDP shortly before the party’s 2023 presidential primary, citing developments that, in his view, hindered constructive participation.
Wike also made it clear that he has no intention of running for president, despite talks around zoning the ticket to the South.
He said it would be inappropriate to support the person who appointed him while simultaneously seeking the same office.
