Presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has responded to a claim by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that he could be among the first politicians to face consequences if President Bola Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election.
Wike had said he believed he would be targeted by opposition figures, particularly Atiku Abubakar and Obi, if Tinubu fails to secure re-election. He has also reiterated his support for Tinubu’s 2027 bid, saying he has no regrets over his political position.
Reacting to the claim, Obi said he would not seek the presidency to pursue people or settle personal scores.
He said using the office to go after political opponents would amount to a waste of Nigeria’s time and resources.
Obi said, “In fact, somebody told me that Wike said if I become president, he will be one of the first victims. I cannot campaign to be president only to start pursuing people. That will be a waste of Nigerian time.
“So, if I go there and leave my job, close the shop, which is Nigeria, and start pursuing people who didn’t want me or did wrong against me, it will be a mitigated disaster. I won’t be part of it. I want to go into office and focus on the job. I’m not against anybody.
“Today, they are in one place or the other where they think is better. I wish them well. For me, it is an opportunity to faithfully serve Nigeria by ensuring that the right things are done within the law and within the resources we have, and that we start doing things properly.”
Obi’s comments came after Wike said he would be among the first politicians to suffer if Tinubu loses the 2027 election, citing his open support for the President.
