In a recent interview on Seun Okinbaloye’s Mic On podcast, Paul Ibe, the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 PDP presidential candidate, has leveled accusations against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Ibe claims that Wike has been pursuing his own interests at the expense of the party’s collective goals.
Ibe Blames Wike for Obi’s Exit from PDP
Ibe asserts that Wike played a significant role in Peter Obi’s departure from the PDP, citing Wike’s ambition to secure the presidency for the southern region. According to Ibe, Wike actively undermined efforts to zone the ticket to the South East, fearing it would diminish his own chances of securing the nomination.
Atiku Denies Forcing Obi’s Exit
In contrast, Ibe denies that Atiku Abubakar orchestrated Obi’s split from the PDP, stating that there were various factors involved. He acknowledges the viability of the Atiku-Obi ticket in the 2019 presidential election and suggests that the Labour Party’s performance in the recent polls may have drawn votes away from the PDP.
Ibe Calls for Reflection on 2023 Election Results
Ibe urges all stakeholders, including Atiku, to examine what went wrong in the 2023 elections. He suggests that Atiku’s call for a coalition of the opposition is a reflection of this need for introspection.
The article highlights the ongoing rift between Atiku and Wike within the PDP, with Ibe accusing Wike of prioritizing his personal interests over the party’s collective goals. The spokesperson’s comments shed light on the circumstances surrounding Peter Obi’s departure from the PDP and the potential impact on the party’s performance in the 2023 presidential election.