Wike denies role in court ruling against Uzodimma
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied involvement in the Federal High Court judgment nullifying the recognition of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Imo West senatorial election in 2027.
Speaking during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday, Wike described allegations linking him to the judgment as mischievous, insisting that he had no involvement in the APC’s internal political disputes.
“I didn’t go to court; I’m not from APC. People are saying that because a day before that judgement he had openly warned his people there’s no Rainbow Coalition,” Wike said.
The minister acknowledged his political disagreement with Uzodimma over the Rainbow Coalition initiative but questioned why the governor appeared uncomfortable with an arrangement intended to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
“What is Hope Uzodinma afraid of in the Rainbow Coalition?” he asked.
Wike maintained that political leaders supporting Tinubu should concentrate on securing his victory in the 2027 presidential election rather than opposing alliances that could strengthen the president’s electoral prospects.
“Your business is to make sure Mr President wins elections. At the national assembly level, so many factors come in, including zoning,” he said.
The former Rivers State governor also defended his political relationship with former Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha, saying personal friendships should not become grounds for political hostility.
“I owe no apologies that Rochas is my friend; after all, he has friends in Rivers State that are my political enemies; will I go and kill them? No!” Wike said.
He challenged Uzodimma to demonstrate political confidence rather than perceive the coalition as a threat.
“If he’s a strong man, he shouldn’t be afraid. You’re strong, whatever you see you take!” he added.
The disagreement highlights emerging tensions among political figures seeking to influence alliances and electoral calculations ahead of the 2027 general elections.