FCT poll: I’ll support only candidates who support Tinubu – Wike
Naija News • 2h ago
**Party Lines Blur Ahead of FCT Poll: Wike's Support Tied to Tinubu Backing**
Nigeria's politics is set to get even more complex as the country's presidential election draws near. In a revealing statement, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has indicated that he will only support candidates who publicly endorse the candidature of All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential flag bearer, Bola Tinubu, in the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) polls.
Wike made this assertion while celebrating the 60th birthday of Senator Sandy Onor, a notable figure in Nigeria's politics, in Abuja. The Governor's stance is a significant development, as it highlights the deepening rift within Nigeria's opposition parties ahead of the 2024 general elections. With the FCT polls scheduled to take place soon, Wike's statement has sparked intense debate about the implications of supporting Tinubu, especially among the opposition parties.
The Governor's decision to tie his support to Tinubu's endorsement is largely seen as a tactical move to consolidate his position within the APC. However, it also raises questions about the loyalty and commitment of opposition parties to their own presidential candidates. Many analysts believe that Wike's stance could lead to a scramble for alliances and strategic partnerships among the opposition parties, as they attempt to counter the APC's strong presidential candidate.
For many Nigerians, the FCT polls will be a litmus test for the opposition parties, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, which have fielded strong candidates in the presidential election. While Wike's support for Tinubu may be seen as a pragmatic decision, it also underscores the complexity and unpredictability of Nigeria's politics. As the country heads into the FCT polls, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the choices made by key players will have far-reaching implications for the 2024 general elections.
In conclusion, Wike's statement on supporting only candidates who back Tinubu is a significant development in Nigeria's politics, particularly ahead of the FCT polls. The implications of this stance are far-reaching, and it remains to be seen how other opposition parties will respond to Wike's move. One thing is certain, however: the 2024 general elections will be a fiercely contested and closely watched event, with Nigerians eagerly waiting to see how the country's complex politics will play out.