Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the possibility of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar contesting the 2027 presidential election, declaring that there is “no space” for him in the race.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while speaking to journalists during an inspection tour of ongoing road projects in Kuje Area Council of the FCT.
“There is no space for him in 2027. He can wait till 2031. By then he will be 82. Even though he has said this is his last time, we will encourage him to run then,” the minister said.
He also criticised Atiku for what he described as persistent attacks on the current administration, arguing that President Bola Tinubu has delivered better performance compared to Atiku’s time in government.
Beyond the political exchange, Wike addressed allegations surrounding the venue of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national convention held earlier in the year.
The minister denied claims that he ordered the revocation of the licence of the Rainbow Event Centre, where the party eventually held its convention on February 14, 2026.
The ADC had alleged that it faced difficulties securing venues in Abuja due to interference by FCT authorities, including attempts to prevent it from using the event centre.
Responding, Wike said such accusations were unfounded and should not be used to mask internal issues within the party.
“We will not allow people to just wake up and say the FCT Minister did this or that.
”I have told my Chief of Staff to find out from the company which staff interfered. I assure you we will get to the bottom of this,” he said.
He added that an investigation had already been initiated to determine whether any official played a role in the alleged obstruction.
Wike further advised the ADC leadership to focus on resolving its internal challenges rather than shifting blame to external actors.
“ADC should stop blaming people for their failure. Be rest assured they will not win,” he stated.
