Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that his principal acted treacherously by supporting President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term in 2027.
Olayinka said Wike had been open about his political position and did not conceal his decision to support Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News on Friday, Olayinka argued that describing Wike’s position as “treacherous” was inappropriate because the minister had publicly declared his support for Tinubu before the Peoples Democratic Party presented its presidential candidate, Sandy Onor.
According to him, Wike’s support for Tinubu was not a recent development and had been consistently expressed by the minister.
Olayinka also said Wike had told Onor that he was free to contest the presidential election but expressed doubts about the PDP’s ability to make a significant impact under its current political circumstances.
The minister’s aide further argued that not every candidate contesting the 2027 presidential election would necessarily be doing so with the expectation of winning.
He pointed to the number of presidential candidates expected on the ballot, saying some politicians could be contesting mainly to establish their presence or make an impression.
Olayinka also questioned the strength of some opposition parties, arguing that a presidential candidate needs a strong grassroots structure, including party agents and political representatives across polling units, to mount an effective nationwide campaign.
He maintained that Wike’s confidence in Tinubu’s chances in 2027 was largely based on what he described as the weakness and lack of sufficient structure among the opposition parties.
Wike has repeatedly stated his support for Tinubu’s re-election bid. In August, he also said he did not need to occupy a formal position in Tinubu’s campaign structure to contribute to the President’s victory in Rivers State and the FCT.
The comments come amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election, with Wike’s continued support for Tinubu remaining a subject of debate within opposition circles.
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