Wike Reveals Why He Rejected Obi's 2023 Presidential Bid

The Federal Capital Territory Minister and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, shared insights into the political dynamics surrounding Nigeria's 2023 presidential election.

Speaking at a luncheon honoring the 10th Rivers State Assembly on October 19, Wike revealed that he was approached by Peter Obi's camp for support in the presidential race.

Despite persistent lobbying efforts from Obi's team, Wike chose not to endorse the former Anambra State Governor.

Wike explained his decision, stating, "Obi’s group lobbied me so much. They can’t deny it. I told them, ‘This will not work.

Rivers State will not follow a path that doesn’t align with us… It will not succeed.’" His refusal to back Obi led to criticism from some of Obi's supporters, who have since been vocal against him.

Instead of supporting Obi, Wike threw his weight behind Bola Tinubu, the candidate from the All Progressives Congress (APC), who ultimately won the presidency.

Reflecting on his choice, Wike expressed no regrets, saying, “Let me tell you what is going on. I have no regrets whatsoever for supporting President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. None at all."

The minister also touched upon internal tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging conspiracies against him by members eyeing the party's 2027 presidential ticket.

He remarked, “There is another conspiracy within the PDP by those seeking the presidency. They believe, ‘If we don’t act now, we’ll have a problem.’ I can assure you, they will have a problem.”