2027: Why didn’t you defeat Atiku in PDP primary – Rufai Oseni to Wike

Arise Television's Morning Show host Rufai Oseni quizzed FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on Wednesday, questioning why he could not topple former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2022 PDP presidential primary. Oseni made the comments while debating claims by Wike regarding his political clout and ability to secure electoral wins for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Wike, who is a member of the PDP and serves President Tinubu, has recently drawn criticism from governors within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 2027 election approaches. Oseni pointed to the circumstances surrounding Wike's victory in the 2019 Rivers State governorship election, specifically the postponement of the result announcement.

He also cited a BBC report on the 2023 presidential election in Rivers State, which highlighted questions regarding the official outcome. "When politicians proclaim they have delivered someone, it is a total falsehood," Oseni stated, adding that the counting of the 2019 election was halted mid-process, with INEC ultimately declaring Wike as the winner after 22 days.

He questioned the meaning behind politicians' assertion of having a "structure" that facilitated their electoral triumphs. "What is this peculiar structure they claim to possess that led to their victory?" Oseni asked, suggesting that it could be their ability to manipulate INEC or the institution's lack of independence. Oseni further disputed Wike's frequent assertions of delivering electoral victories, suggesting that such claims should not be taken as evidence of genuine public support.

He also queried why Wike failed to secure the PDP presidential nomination in 2022 if, as alleged, he was as popular as claimed. "I'm constantly hearing, 'I delivered this, I delivered that, I delivered it,' as if they believe they have the full endorsement of the electorate. If Wike was so popular, why did he not win the PDP primaries against Atiku Abubakar?" Oseni concluded, emphasizing that politicians often act as if they possess divine authority.