By our reporter
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he has no plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, stating that he is fully in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and will continue to work with him through to 2031.
Wike made this known while addressing reports about his political future and alleged interest in running for president. The former Rivers State governor said such claims were false and aimed at causing distractions. He added that he is standing by President Tinubu.
I am not running for president in 2027. I am working with President Tinubu, and I will not contest against someone I support. My commitment is to him until 2031, Wike said during a media briefing in Abuja.
This response comes after rumours spread that a group within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party was trying to convince Wike to enter the 2027 race. However, his media aide denied the story, calling it fake news meant to cause confusion in the political space.
Wike, who is a member of the PDP, accepted a ministerial role in the All Progressives Congress-led government in 2023, a move that brought mixed reactions across the country. His cooperation with the ruling party led to talks that he might eventually join the APC or use his growing national profile to prepare for a future presidential run.
But with his recent comments, Wike has put those talks to rest. He made it clear that he is not planning to run against Tinubu and is standing with him for the long term.
Who else will win if Tinubu is running? I am loyal to him, and I believe in what we are building together, Wike said.
Wike stepping away from the 2027 contest may change political plans in both the PDP and southern Nigeria, where he holds strong influence. His decision could give other candidates room to emerge and may also help President Tinubu strengthen support across party lines.
Some political observers believe Wike could still play an important role in the 2027 election not as a candidate, but as someone with influence in key regions and among political groups.
