Wike and Allies Focused on Self-Interest, Ignoring Nigerians’ Suffering – Atiku
Atiku remains dedicated to addressing the real issues affecting citizens
Former Vice President of Nigeria and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on Saturday criticized former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and his allies, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the pressing challenges facing Nigerians.
Atiku expressed that Wike’s self-interest is evident in his focus on local matters in Rivers State, rather than fulfilling his ministerial duties as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister.
Earlier, Wike had remarked in Rivers that Atiku had been rejected by Nigerians after multiple presidential election losses, advising him to retire from politics.
In response, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, released a statement on Saturday dismissing Wike’s comments as “inconsequential and driven by personal grievances.”
“Our attention has been drawn to Mr. Nyesom Wike’s latest comments, which can only be described as yet another episode of his dramatic outbursts. Normally, we would choose not to respond, but we feel that silence could be misinterpreted,” the statement read.
“We remain calm, fully aware that Nigerians are familiar with Wike’s antics, a lingering bitterness from his defeat to Atiku during the 2022 PDP presidential primaries. His comments lack any real substance and are clearly motivated by personal vendettas.”
“If Wike genuinely believes that Nigerians are satisfied with the current state of affairs under the government he serves, it speaks volumes about where his true priorities lie—not with the people, but with himself. This self-centered approach is further evident in his focus on internal Rivers affairs over his national responsibilities.”
The statement emphasized that, while Wike attempts to shift attention with his “baseless rants,” Atiku remains focused on the real issues affecting Nigerians. “Wike is more preoccupied with his own agenda than addressing the genuine problems faced by the nation. In contrast, our dedication remains firm, prioritizing the welfare and advancement of Nigerians.”
The statement further criticized Wike’s penchant for sensationalism. “Wike thrives on creating illusions, paying for live TV broadcasts to vent his frustrations. But we will not stoop to his level. Instead, we choose to maintain our integrity and dignity, while others prefer to wallow in the mud.”