Paul Ibe, the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has accused Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, of prioritizing personal interests over the collective goals of the party.
In a recent episode of Seun Okinbaloye’s Mic On podcast, Ibe expressed bewilderment at Wike’s actions, suggesting they served his own agenda rather than that of the PDP.
He highlighted the tension between Wike and Atiku, which reportedly contributed to Peter Obi’s departure from the party and his subsequent candidacy under the Labour Party.
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Ibe clarified that Atiku did not instigate Obi’s exit and emphasized that external factors, not internal relationships, influenced the decision.
Instead, he attributed Obi’s departure to Wike’s ambition to secure the presidency for the southern region.
According to Ibe, Wike actively opposed efforts to zone the presidential ticket to the Southeast, fearing it would undermine his chances of securing the nomination.
He alleged that Wike’s actions played a significant role in Obi’s departure from the party.
Reflecting on the 2019 presidential election, Ibe acknowledged the strength of the Atiku-Obi ticket and suggested that the Labour Party’s performance in recent polls diverted votes from the PDP.
He urged all stakeholders, including Atiku, to introspect and identify shortcomings, advocating for a coalition of opposition parties to challenge the ruling party effectively.
The discord between Atiku and Wike continues to fracture the PDP, with both figures maintaining separate factions within the party and pursuing conflicting agendas.
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