Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) constitutes a coalition, mocking former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for what he described as his habit of hopping from party to party in search of a presidential ticket.
Speaking during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Monday, Wike criticized Atiku’s political trajectory, noting that since 1999, Atiku has switched parties multiple times—moving from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Action Congress (AC), back to PDP, then to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and again back to PDP before finally joining ADC.
“If I were his son, I would sit him down and say, ‘Dad, how can you keep jumping from one party to another at almost 70 years old?’” Wike said.
He added that moving between parties does not amount to forming a coalition, pointing out that individuals have left and joined various parties over time due to differing interests, and new alliances do not guarantee electoral success.
Wike also said that given the current state and arrangements within PDP, it’s unlikely Atiku would secure the party’s presidential ticket for 2027, which partly explains his shift to ADC and the coalition narrative.
He mocked the idea of rescuing the nation through such coalitions and highlighted Atiku’s long political career, including his tenure as vice president and chairman of the National Economic Council, to question the motives behind his constant party switches.
The minister also criticized former Senate President David Mark for defecting to ADC, questioning his record in public office.
Wike’s remarks come amid heightened political maneuvering as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, with various politicians positioning themselves and alliances forming.