Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s FCT minister, says the G-5 governors deliberately let Labour Party candidate Peter Obi win in parts of the South-South during the 2023 elections to reduce the prospects of PDP presidential nominee Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking on television, Wike argues that because PDP is traditionally stronger in the South-South, “instead of Atiku to take it,” the states should go to the Labour Party. He frames this as a political strategy aimed at disappointing Atiku’s campaign, and he adds that the group made exceptions in some places, including Rivers, where he says Obi would not be allowed to win. The sources also report Wike linking Obi’s earlier success in certain states to a then-active campaign around Christian-Muslim ticket politics.
Both outlets repeat Wike’s broader explanation that circumstances have changed since 2023, noting that the “Muslim-Muslim ticket” narrative is no longer portrayed as impactful. They also provide context on Wike’s role in forming the G-5 with other governors after disputes within the PDP leading up to the 2023 polls, and mention that at least one member has since left the group.
