Wike Slams Amaechi's VP Candidacy, Says It Won't Boost Atiku's Chances

In a recent interview with selected radio stations in Port Harcourt, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, expressed his skepticism regarding the emergence of Rotimi Amaechi as the vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress for the 2027 general election. Wike argued that Amaechi's past record does not make him a strong asset to the opposition coalition, citing his inability to significantly influence electoral outcomes for former President Muhammadu Buhari in Rivers State during his tenure as minister. The FCT minister also recalled Amaechi's comments about his role in the defeat of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 election, which he believes could affect his acceptance among Rivers voters. Wike stated, 'Chibuike Amaechi running as vice-presidential candidate is not a plus to Amaechi. He was governor and could not deliver for Buhari. He was a Grade A minister and still could not secure 25 per cent for Buhari in Rivers State.' Furthermore, Wike contrasted the current administration with previous governments, highlighting the opportunities for appointments and manpower development in the Niger Delta provided by President Bola Tinubu's administration. He emphasized that any Rivers person who genuinely loves the state and wants its development cannot choose what is inferior over what is better. Wike also criticized Amaechi's recent engagement with the Ogoni ethnic nationality, accusing him of political inconsistency. On reports that former President Goodluck Jonathan's name was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, Wike denied any involvement, stating that he had never heard Jonathan express interest in running for president. The minister reaffirmed his support for Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027, saying, 'We are with the President and happy where we are. Nobody leaves something good for something worse. Tinubu will win, and I will support Tinubu.' Wike acknowledged that the PDP would field a presidential candidate but emphasized the need for the party to resolve its internal crisis to regain political relevance. He added that power should remain in the South after the expiration of Tinubu's tenure, saying, 'It is the turn of the South.'