Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has publicly declared that he will not support Governor Godwin Obaseki ahead of the upcoming Edo State gubernatorial elections scheduled for September 21. Wike made this clear during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday.
In addition to withdrawing support from Obaseki, Wike also stated that he would not back the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who has Obaseki’s endorsement. The FCT Minister sharply criticized the Edo State governor, referring to him as an “ingrate” for past actions.
Wike revealed that Governor Obaseki had personally approached him seeking support for Ighodalo as his preferred successor. However, Wike stated that he had refused, citing past experiences where his support for Obaseki had led to insults and a lack of gratitude.
“I told him to his face I wouldn’t support his candidate. My previous support for him only brought me unending insults,” Wike said during the interview.
Wike also addressed concerns regarding the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), whom he acknowledged is his first cousin. He firmly defended the integrity of his cousin, asserting that no one, not even the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), could influence him.
“Nobody can intimidate my cousin, not even the INEC Chairman. Nobody born of a woman can intimidate my cousin into doing what is not right,” Wike declared.
The Minister noted that the Edo REC had been posted to the state over a year ago, questioning why concerns about his relative’s position were only being raised now by certain PDP members.
Wike’s statements have drawn attention to the deepening divisions within the PDP, particularly ahead of a crucial election that could shape the political landscape in Edo State. His refusal to support both Governor Obaseki and the party’s gubernatorial candidate signals further fractures within the party as election day approaches.
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