In the aftermath of the 2023 Nigerian presidential election, Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has provided insights into his decision not to support Labour Party candidate Peter Obi.
Wike expressed disappointment over actions taken by certain Southeast leaders within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the party’s presidential primaries. He felt that these leaders undermined the Southern region’s interests by supporting a Northern candidate, which he perceived as a betrayal of the South’s quest for political representation.
Despite his reservations, Wike maintained a level of support for Obi by facilitating logistics during Obi’s campaign visit to Rivers State. This gesture was in line with his broader commitment to Southern solidarity, even as he chose not to overtly endorse Obi’s candidacy.
Wike’s stance highlights the complexities of regional politics in Nigeria and underscores the challenges of maintaining unity within major political parties amidst divergent regional interests.CONTINUE READING
