Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Wike Clarifies: No Word from Jonathan on 2027 Presidential Bid
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has publicly stated that former President Goodluck Jonathan has not communicated any intention to run for the presidency in the 2027 elections. This declaration was made during a press briefing on Friday, October 24, where Wike addressed circulating rumors about Jonathan’s potential return to the presidential race.
Wike Responds to Speculation on Jonathan’s Political Plans
When questioned about reports suggesting that Jonathan is being urged to re-enter the presidential contest, Wike responded candidly: “You are the one informing me now. Jonathan has never reached out to me to discuss any pressure to run or to seek my opinion. If he does, I will share my thoughts openly.” He emphasized that he would not accept media reports as fact without direct confirmation from Jonathan himself.
Disassociation from PDP National Chairmanship Developments
Regarding the recent endorsement of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, as the consensus candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman position, Wike expressed detachment from this development. “I am unaware of Turaki’s emergence as chairman; perhaps he leads a different faction, but it is not the PDP I recognize,” he remarked. This statement comes after PDP Northern stakeholders publicly backed Turaki ahead of the party’s national convention slated for November 15-16.
Wike Questions Legitimacy of Upcoming PDP Convention
Wike also cast doubt on the legality of the forthcoming PDP convention, indicating his intention to boycott the event. “How can I participate in a convention that, by law, does not exist?” he questioned, underscoring ongoing internal disputes within the party.
Context: Pressure on Jonathan to Support Tinubu’s Re-election
These remarks come amid reports that former President Jonathan is facing significant pressure to abandon any presidential ambitions for 2027 and instead endorse the re-election campaign of current President Bola Tinubu. The political landscape remains fluid as key figures navigate alliances ahead of the next general elections.
