It’s Tinubu till 2031’ — Wike reiterates support, denies 2027 bid

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports claiming that some leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are urging him to run for president in 2027.

In a statement released on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister described the story as “another lie from idle minds who have nothing to contribute to the development of the country.”

Olayinka stated that the report, published by an online platform known for “falsehood and blackmail,” was a deliberate attempt to drag Wike into unnecessary political drama.

Reaffirming Wike’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Olayinka said, “As far as Wike is concerned, it is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu till 2031.” He added that Wike is not one to operate in secrecy, saying, “He does what he says and says what he does. It is shameful that the ‘pull-Wike-down’ elements could not think beyond such kindergarten tactics.”

Clarifying the alleged PDP meeting, Olayinka explained that the only gathering held on August 20, 2025, was among PDP stakeholders from southern Nigeria, ahead of another meeting scheduled in Lagos. He said the discussion focused on internal zoning matters within the party and not on any presidential ambition for Wike.

He referenced a press statement titled “Re: Purported Meeting Of PDP Southern Zoning Consultative Summit,” which was signed by several PDP leaders from the South-East and South-South, including party chairmen, legislators, and former officials.

Olayinka further noted that Wike’s character and political stance are well known to Nigerians, stressing that he remains fully aligned with President Tinubu’s administration and vision for the country.

“He has said it clearly that from now till 2031, it is on the mandate of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu that he will stand,” Olayinka reiterated.

He concluded that Wike’s focus remains on implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda through infrastructural and policy reforms in the FCT, ensuring that Abuja becomes a capital city that competes globally in development and standards.