The 2023 presidential election in Nigeria was a pivotal moment in the country’s political history. One of the most significant events leading up to the election was the internal struggle within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly the selection of the party’s vice-presidential candidate. The decision by Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate, to pick Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike as his running mate sparked controversy, deepening existing divisions within the party.
This article delves into the reasons behind Atiku’s decision, the political ramifications, and the ongoing conflict between these two influential politicians.
Why Atiku Refused to Pick Wike as Running Mate
Atiku’s Justification for Choosing Okowa
Atiku Abubakar addressed the controversy by stating that the selection of a running mate was his prerogative as the presidential candidate. He emphasized that he needed someone he could work harmoniously with and who could contribute effectively to his administration’s goals. While he acknowledged Wike’s strength as a politician, Atiku expressed his preference for Okowa based on his calm demeanor, ability to foster national unity, and commitment to PDP’s policies.
Atiku also noted that Okowa had played a crucial role in managing his home state of Delta and was instrumental in rallying support for PDP in the South-South region. His decision was ultimately strategic, aimed at securing votes across different demographics in the country.
Committee Recommendation and PDP’s Internal Disagreement
Before the final decision was made, a selection committee within the PDP had recommended Wike for the vice-presidential slot. According to Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, Wike emerged as the top choice due to his loyalty to the party and his strong political influence. However, Atiku ultimately went against the committee’s recommendation, a move that many saw as a personal decision rather than one based on party consensus.
This choice led to resentment among Wike’s supporters, particularly within the G-5 Governors—a group of PDP governors who felt sidelined by Atiku’s decision and later worked against him in the presidential election.
Religious and Ethnic Considerations
Religious and ethnic factors also played a role in Atiku’s decision. Some political analysts argued that selecting Wike, a Southern Christian, could alienate Muslim voters in the North. The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), an influential Islamic group, openly opposed Wike’s candidacy, citing alleged anti-Muslim sentiments and discriminatory policies during his tenure as Rivers State governor. They argued that picking Wike could cost Atiku crucial votes in Northern Nigeria.
On the other hand, Okowa, though also a Christian, was considered a more moderate and less controversial figure. His selection was seen as a safer political choice, given the religious and regional complexities of Nigeria’s electorate.
The Political Fallout and the Renewed Clash Between Atiku and Wike
Immediate Aftermath of Wike’s Rejection
Following the announcement of Okowa as Atiku’s running mate, Wike expressed deep disappointment and frustration. He felt betrayed by the PDP leadership, especially after playing a key role in keeping the party strong after its defeat in the 2015 and 2019 general elections.
Wike’s dissatisfaction led to the formation of the G-5 Governors, which included Samuel Ortom (Benue), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu). This group openly opposed Atiku’s candidacy and refused to support him in the 2023 election. Their rebellion significantly weakened the PDP’s chances and contributed to Atiku’s loss.
Wike’s Defection to the APC and Ministerial Appointment
As the 2023 elections drew closer, Wike intensified his opposition to Atiku. While he did not officially leave the PDP, he worked against the party’s presidential candidate. After Atiku’s defeat to Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike’s political moves became clearer.
In a surprising turn of events, Wike accepted a ministerial appointment from President Tinubu, a move that solidified his break from Atiku’s camp. He was appointed as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), a prestigious position that placed him at the center of national governance.
Wike’s defection to the ruling APC marked a turning point in the Atiku-Wike feud. It also signaled the collapse of PDP’s internal unity, as more party members began shifting allegiance due to unresolved grievances.
Renewed Clash: Atiku vs. Wike in 2024
Even after the election, tensions between Atiku and Wike have not subsided. In early 2024, both politicians reignited their war of words, with Atiku accusing Wike of betrayal and working against PDP’s interests. He blamed Wike for the party’s electoral failure and for undermining its cohesion.
Wike, in response, criticized Atiku’s leadership style, claiming that his arrogance and refusal to listen to party stakeholders led to PDP’s downfall. He also alleged that Atiku had failed to build a genuine coalition and had ignored crucial voices within the party.
The renewed clash has further deepened divisions within the PDP, raising concerns about the party’s ability to recover before the next general elections in 2027.
Political Implications of the Atiku-Wike Rift
Weakening of the PDP
The fallout between Atiku and Wike has significantly weakened the PDP’s standing as a strong opposition party. Internal divisions and unresolved conflicts have led to defections and weakened public trust in the party’s leadership.
If the PDP fails to resolve this crisis, it risks further fragmentation, which could benefit the APC in the next election cycle.
Wike’s Rising Influence in the APC
By joining the APC-led federal government, Wike has positioned himself as a power broker in national politics. His role as FCT Minister has given him significant leverage, and he may use this influence to further marginalize Atiku within the political landscape.
Many analysts believe Wike could play a crucial role in shaping the APC’s future, particularly in determining its candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku’s Future in Nigerian Politics
Atiku remains a formidable political figure, but his failure to win the presidency despite multiple attempts has raised questions about his viability as a candidate in future elections. The ongoing feud with Wike may also limit his ability to rally broad-based support.
If Atiku intends to remain relevant, he may need to rebuild relationships within the PDP and find new allies to strengthen his political base.
Conclusion
The Atiku-Wike saga is one of the most significant political conflicts in recent Nigerian history. Atiku’s decision to bypass Wike for the vice-presidential ticket not only caused internal strife within the PDP but also reshaped the country’s political landscape. The fallout led to Wike’s shift toward the APC and further deepened divisions within the opposition party.
As the feud continues into 2024, the implications for Nigerian politics remain profound. Whether the PDP can recover from this rift or whether Wike’s new alliance with the APC will redefine power dynamics in the country remains to be seen. One thing is clear: the political battle between Atiku and Wike is far from over.
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