Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has refuted claims that some leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike described the reports as false and misleading.
He said the speculation originated from individuals bent on dragging his name into needless political controversies.
According to Olayinka, the story was fabricated by an online platform known for spreading false information and engaging in political blackmail.
He insisted that Wike remains committed to his duties as FCT Minister and has no interest in joining the 2027 presidential race.
‘It’s Tinubu till 2031,’ aays Wike’s aide
Olayinka emphasised that Wike’s loyalty lies firmly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that the Minister’s political stance is clear and unambiguous. “As far as Wike is concerned, it is President Tinubu till 2031,” he declared.
He noted that Wike is a straightforward politician who operates transparently and never hides his intentions. “He does what he says and says what he does,” Olayinka stated, condemning those trying to undermine the Minister’s credibility with baseless rumours.
Olayinka further described those peddling the rumour as desperate elements employing “childish tactics” to discredit Wike.
He said such individuals underestimate the Minister’s political clarity and commitment to supporting Tinubu’s administration through to its next mandate.
Clarification on PDP stakeholders’ meeting
Addressing reports of a supposed PDP meeting to endorse Wike’s candidacy, Olayinka clarified that the only meeting held on August 20, 2025, involved southern PDP stakeholders and had nothing to do with any presidential ambition.
He explained that the meeting focused solely on internal party discussions ahead of another PDP gathering in Lagos, where party positions zoned to the South were to be finalised. The outcome of the southern meeting, he said, was made public through a press release endorsed by several top PDP leaders, including state chairmen, lawmakers, and former officials.
Olayinka concluded that Wike remains devoted to advancing President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” in the FCT, ensuring the capital becomes a global benchmark for infrastructure and urban development. “From now till 2031, Wike stands firmly with President Tinubu and his vision for Nigeria,” he reaffirmed.