Abuja: Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has declared that the 2027 presidential election will be an easy victory for President Bola Tinubu, attributing this to what he describes as a ‘crippled and depleted’ opposition.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike shared his views in Abuja while discussing the recent Osun governorship election, which saw Gov Ademola Adeleke securing a second term. Wike contrasted the current political atmosphere with the 2023 general election, which he described as challenging for Tinubu. He remarked that the 2023 election was difficult for the president due to uncertainties surrounding the government’s actions at the time.
Wike emphasized the importance of a strong opposition to challenge an incumbent government, arguing that the current opposition lacks the necessary strength and unity. He asserted that the 2027 election against Tinubu is already decided, given the opposition’s weaknesses and lack of preparation.
The minister further praised Tinubu’s administration for allowing democratic processes to proceed without interference, especially in the Osun election. He countered claims by opposition parties that their victory over the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was achieved despite federal support, pointing out that such allegations often arise from those unfamiliar with true federal influence in elections.
Wike highlighted the absence of federal intervention in the Osun election, contrasting it with past experiences in Rivers State in 2019, where federal presence was more pronounced. He called on opposition parties to acknowledge the fair conduct of recent elections and criticized their internal divisions and lack of strong candidates as obstacles to their success in national elections.
He also referenced the role of the G5 Governors in the 2023 election, suggesting that opposition parties would struggle without similar support in future contests. Wike concluded by noting the difference between governorship and national elections, emphasizing the unique challenges of the latter.