The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said the presidential ambition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, may face serious challenges in the 2027 election if former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi
Amaechi, remains his running mate.
Wike made the remarks on Tuesday during his monthly media briefing in Abuja, where he argued that Amaechi would not provide the electoral advantage Atiku needs to win the presidency.
According to the minister, if Atiku selected Amaechi because of his ability to attract votes, the move would not yield the desired result.
“ Amaechi as the running mate to Atiku, I have come to know that it will be difficult for Atiku to be president. If it is in terms of bringing votes to support Atiku, he is dead on arrival,” Wike stated.
The FCT minister questioned Amaechi’s political influence, recalling that he served as the Director-General of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 and 2019 presidential campaigns but failed to secure significant support in Rivers State.
Wike said Buhari could not win up to 25 percent of votes in Rivers State despite Amaechi’s role as campaign director.
He also dismissed claims that Amaechi remains a strong political asset in Rivers State and the South-South region, arguing that political relevance should be measured by tangible achievements and continued support among the people.
The minister challenged Amaechi’s supporters to point to his contributions to the development of Rivers State and the Niger Delta during his time as governor and minister.
Wike further criticised Amaechi’s earlier allegations of irregularities during the ADC presidential primary, accusing him of benefiting from the same process he had previously condemned.
Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.