The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly questioned the patriotism of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress. Wike said Obi showed total disregard for national symbols after he reportedly sat down during the rendition of the official national anthem.
According to a report by THISDAYLIVE, Wike addressed party leaders, youths, and traditional rulers on Friday during a town hall meeting in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State. The gathering was organised under the Rainbow Coalition banner to rally support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Wike claimed that Obi chose to sit while the country's recognised anthem was played during an NDC gathering in Lagos, but stood up when an alternate anthem came on. The minister argued that such actions demonstrate that Obi does not believe in the unity of the nation and should not be allowed near the presidency.
The minister insisted that anyone who ridicules Nigeria's national identity cannot be trusted with highest political authority. He maintained that Obi’s actions sent a clear signal that he would cause division in the country if elected.
Wike also attacked Obi's administrative record, claiming the former Anambra State governor failed to conduct local council polls throughout his eight years in office. He further argued that Obi habitually dumps political parties rather than staying behind to resolve internal party disputes.
Turning his focus to other opposition figures, the FCT minister tackled the political coalition featuring former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi. Wike criticised Amaechi's past handling of the Ministry of Transportation, pointing out problems with seaports, an uncompleted hospital project, and an unfulfilled school rebuilding promise in Ogu.
Instead, Wike pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects in the area under the current administration, including road projects handled by the Niger Delta Development Commission. Local leaders, including the Amanyanabo of Bolo, King Acheseinimie Frank, and council chairman Vincent Nemieboka, pledged their continued loyalty to the coalition.
