Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu faces little resistance ahead of the 2027 presidential election, insisting that opposition parties remain too divided to pose a serious challenge.
Speaking with journalists after inspecting ongoing projects in Abuja on Monday, Wike dismissed claims of a formidable opposition coalition, describing rival political groups as fragmented and plagued by internal crises.
According to the minister, recent revelations by prominent opposition figures have confirmed his long-held belief that the opposition lacks the cohesion required to challenge the ruling party effectively.
Wike ridiculed groups that had presented themselves as agents of change, arguing that they have lost focus and direction.
“They came together claiming that the government had failed Nigerians and that they represented a new alternative capable of delivering meaningful change,” he said. “However, recent statements by Babachir Lawal regarding alleged manipulation and the existence of ‘rigging machines’ within the opposition have exposed deep cracks in their alliance.”
Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, reportedly resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday, alleging that the party’s presidential primary process was manipulated in favour of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Reacting to the development, Wike maintained that seasoned politicians had always understood that the opposition arrangement was structured to benefit Abubakar, making the idea of a fair and united coalition unrealistic from the beginning.
“I said earlier that any experienced politician could see that the structure was designed for Atiku Abubakar. There was never any real coalition,” he stated.
The FCT minister further argued that the growing criticism from within opposition ranks highlights the extent of the challenges facing the parties.
He urged supporters of the current administration not to be concerned about the prospects of a united opposition ahead of the next general election.
“We are pleased with the situation. As things stand, the path is clear for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” Wike said.
