Peter Obi Never Held LG Elections, Yet Nigerians Weren’t Angry – Wike

ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a direct swipe at Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, accusing him of failing to uphold democratic principles during his time as Governor of Anambra State.

Wike, who spoke during a thanksgiving service at Saint James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, said Obi ran the state without conducting local government elections throughout his eight-year tenure, yet many Nigerians applauded him as a democratic reformer.

“For eight years, he was governor. He never conducted local government elections. Never,” Wike stated.

“Back then, Nigerians were not angry. They were happy that he refused to conduct elections for eight good years. And you call that democracy? He was the governor and also the chairman of all the local governments. None of you asked questions.”

The minister’s remarks come amid growing political tensions and preparations for the 2027 elections. Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, expressed concern over what he called the Church’s emotional involvement in the 2023 elections, warning against similar decisions in the future.

“Some of you have sympathy for someone you don’t even know. That’s how you nearly made us make a mistake, saying Peter Obi was going to become president. President where?!” he added.

Wike cautioned the Church against falling for political propaganda, urging Christians to critically interrogate political narratives and candidates rather than relying on sentiment.

“Ask us questions we are politicians. Be careful about what we tell you. If nothing had happened, some of us wouldn’t be here today. If you want to understand what’s really going on, call us. Don’t let people use propaganda to blackmail you,” he said.

While reaffirming support for President Bola Tinubu, Wike described the state of Nigeria before Tinubu’s administration as “dead,” but praised the President for taking tough steps aimed at recovery.

“All I ask of the Church is to be patient and continue to pray for Mr. President and this administration. Forget those who had the chance to fix Nigeria and failed. They won’t get that chance again,” he concluded.

VANGUARD