FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not prepared for the 2027 general elections, citing the party’s lack of a formidable structure and internal cohesion. Speaking during a live media session in Abuja, Wike dismissed the chances of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar clinching the PDP presidential ticket, arguing that Nigerians have already rejected Atiku’s blueprint and that the party cannot continue to rely on a single individual for leadership. He questioned, “Did he not present it before Nigerians? Did Nigerians choose him? He is lobbying for another chance, but the chance will not be there. In which party? How can we rely on one man for so many years?”
Wike’s comments highlight deepening divisions within the PDP, with the minister openly challenging Atiku’s influence and warning against sidelining key stakeholders. He likened the situation to the U.S. Republican Party’s internal dynamics, stressing that effective opposition requires more than criticism and that the PDP must address its internal crisis to be a credible alternative in 2027.
The remarks have sparked sharp responses from Atiku’s supporters, who insist that Wike cannot determine the party’s direction or its presidential candidate, and accuse him of working to destabilize the PDP from within. Nonetheless, Wike maintains that the party’s inability to unite and build a robust structure will hinder its prospects in the next election cycle, underscoring the urgent need for reconciliation and strategic planning if the PDP is to mount a serious challenge in 2027.
