The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched a sharp criticism of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a “serial contestant and loser” in Nigeria’s electoral politics and predicting that he would continue to seek the presidency even beyond 2031.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday during an inspection tour of ongoing road infrastructure projects across Abuja, where he responded to recent comments by Atiku alleging that the current administration has failed to deliver meaningful benefits to Nigerians.
Speaking to journalists at one of the project sites, the FCT minister dismissed Atiku’s criticism, insisting that the former vice president lacked the moral authority to assess the performance of the present government.
“Atiku is a serial failure,” Wike said. “He is a serial contestant and loser, and I am sure that in 2031, he will still contest. Nigerians would be laughing at such a person making that kind of statement that nothing positive has been done.”
The comments mark an escalation in the ongoing war of words between key political figures as the country gradually moves toward the 2027 general elections. While Atiku has been critical of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the ruling camp have continued to push back, defending the government’s policies and performance.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and a prominent political figure, challenged Atiku to make a direct comparison between the state of infrastructure in the Federal Capital Territory today and during the period he served as vice president from 1999 to 2007.
“Let him compare the FCT now and when he was vice president,” Wike said. “Can he honestly say what we have now is the same as then?”
According to the minister, ongoing development projects in Abuja, particularly in the area of road construction and urban renewal, demonstrate the commitment of the current administration to improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
He pointed to several road projects under construction and rehabilitation as evidence of progress, noting that the FCT administration is prioritising the expansion and modernization of critical infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population.
Wike’s remarks also come amid heightened political rhetoric between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition figures, with both sides seeking to shape public perception ahead of future elections.
In a separate development, the minister addressed allegations made by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which claimed that officials of the FCT administration attempted to frustrate its convention at the Rainbow Event Centre in Abuja.
Dismissing the accusation, Wike denied any involvement by the FCT authorities in disrupting the party’s activities. He maintained that the administration remains committed to upholding democratic rights, including freedom of assembly and political participation.
“There is no truth to those allegations,” Wike said, insisting that the FCT administration does not interfere with the lawful activities of political parties or organisations.
Political observers say the latest exchange reflects increasing tensions within Nigeria’s political space as major actors begin to position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. Public statements, criticisms, and counter-criticisms are becoming more frequent, signalling the early stages of political contestation.
Atiku, who has contested the presidency multiple times, remains a central figure in opposition politics and is widely expected to play a role in the next electoral cycle. His criticisms of the current administration have focused on economic conditions, governance, and policy outcomes.
On the other hand, supporters of the Tinubu administration argue that reforms being implemented by the government require time to yield results and should be assessed based on long-term impact rather than immediate outcomes.
Wike’s strong defence of the administration and his direct attack on Atiku highlight the deepening divisions within Nigeria’s political elite. Analysts note that such rhetoric, while not uncommon, underscores the competitive nature of the country’s democratic process.
As political activities continue to intensify, stakeholders are calling for issue-based campaigns and constructive engagement that focus on policy alternatives and national development, rather than personal attacks.
For now, the exchange between Wike and Atiku adds another layer to the unfolding political narrative, with both figures remaining influential voices in shaping public discourse ahead of the next general elections.
