Nigerian businessman and political commentator Isaac Fayose has challenged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his pledge to resign if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu loses the FCT and Rivers State in the 2027 presidential election.
Fayose argued that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), could defeat Tinubu in both territories if the election is conducted freely and fairly.
The remarks followed Wike’s declaration during an engagement with leaders and members of the Apo Mechanics and Traders Association in Abuja, where the minister said he would leave office if Tinubu failed to win the FCT and Rivers State.
According to a report by Naija News published on October 2, 2026, Fayose challenged Wike’s assessment of the political situation and maintained that the opposition had considerable support in Abuja and Rivers.
Fayose Questions Wike’s Political Assessment
Fayose’s comments centred on the minister’s confidence in delivering the two territories for Tinubu in the next presidential election.
He argued that the political mood in Abuja differed from Wike’s assessment and cited Obi’s performance in the FCT during the 2023 presidential election in support of his position.
Fayose also expressed confidence in Obi’s prospects in Rivers State, although his claims about the 2027 outcome remain political predictions rather than established facts.
Wike, meanwhile, has maintained that the opposition would face difficulties defeating Tinubu, pointing to what he considers weaknesses within opposition ranks.
2027 Election Debate Intensifies
The exchange highlights the growing political contest over regional support ahead of the January 16, 2027 presidential election.
The FCT and Rivers State have become focal points in the debate following Wike’s pledge, with political actors offering competing assessments of the likely voting patterns.
The final outcome will depend on voters’ decisions and the conduct of the election.