Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has described Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), as a “food is ready” politician who lacks the capacity to handle the rigours of leadership.
Wike made the remarks during his monthly media chat with journalists on Monday, June 1, 2026.
“Peter Obi is like ‘food is ready’, ‘mama put’. I don’t want struggling in this country. There are challenges. You must have the capacity to face those challenges,” Wike said.
The minister argued that effective leadership demands courage, resilience, and the ability to endure pressure, rather than merely criticising others. He emphasised that true leadership is tested in difficult times.
“Leadership requires some level of courage and resilience, not just the ability to criticise what others are doing,” he added.
Recalling his experience within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Wike said he refused to abandon the party despite intense pressure from other governors.
“You saw in PDP, all the governors… I said I will not leave this party. They had money, yes, but it’s not money. I said I was not going to leave; rather you will leave. Have I left? Have you not left?” he stated.
The minister also reflected on the public criticism he faced when he assumed office as FCT Minister, saying he remained focused despite the attacks.
“You remember when I came here as a minister, there was nothing I did not [hear], no abuse I did not get. That’s what makes you a leader. That’s what makes you a man. Leadership is not bashing people. That’s not leadership,” Wike stated.