A close associate of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has fired back at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, calling him a “self-absorbed drunken politician” who exaggerates his political influence.
Hon. Oladimeji Fabiyi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a known ally of Atiku, made the remarks in response to Wike’s claim that he would block Atiku from becoming president in 2027.
The feud between both politicians stems from the 2023 presidential election, where Atiku lost to President Bola Tinubu. Wike, a key member of the G-5 Governors—a group of PDP governors who opposed Atiku’s candidacy—has taken credit for Atiku’s loss. His latest comments came after Atiku stated in an interview that he had no regrets about not picking Wike as his running mate.
Fabiyi, however, dismissed Wike’s claims, calling them delusional. He described Wike as nothing more than a “comic relief” during the last election, adding that his role in the opposition had little effect on Atiku’s chances.
“It is amusing to see Wike claim he was the reason for Atiku’s loss,” Fabiyi said in a press statement on Thursday. “Wike and his G-5 allies didn’t have the influence to harm Atiku’s presidential bid—not in 2023 and certainly not in the future.”
Fabiyi further criticized Wike, aside calling him a drunken politician, he also called him a “political rascal” who lacks credibility both in his home state of Rivers and at the national level. According to him, Wike tries to present himself as a major player in Nigerian politics, but in reality, his influence is limited.
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He also predicted that Wike would soon realize he is on a “sinking ship” and might even return to Atiku seeking forgiveness.
“When the time for the 2027 election comes, Wike will see that he has no real political base. He is not loyal to any cause, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he comes begging Atiku for forgiveness,” Fabiyi said.
He further stated that Atiku does not need Wike to build a strong coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, arguing that Nigerians are already dissatisfied with the current government, where Wike now plays a role.
Fabiyi also criticized Wike’s performance as FCT Minister, accusing him of failing to improve the nation’s capital.
“Instead of making empty political threats, Wike should focus on fixing Abuja. Crime is on the rise, streetlights are not working, and public amenities like schools and hospitals are in terrible condition,” he said.
He added that Wike’s leadership style in the FCT is all about showmanship rather than real development, saying, “No one in Abuja is fooled by Wike’s dramatic approach to governance.”
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