Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has criticised Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi, calling him a “president of social media” and arguing that he lacks the qualifications to govern Nigeria.
Key takeaways
- Wike made the remarks on Saturday during a town hall engagement with stakeholders in Rivers State.
- The FCT minister said online support alone cannot provide the foundation for national leadership.
- He questioned Obi’s record during his tenure as a state governor.
- Wike said governing Nigeria requires demonstrated competence, experience and administrative capacity.
- Peter Obi had not publicly responded to the comments at the time of publication.
Wike questions Obi’s governing credentials
Speaking at the Rivers town hall meeting, Wike said Obi’s political profile had been built largely through social-media activity rather than measurable accomplishments from his time in office as governor.
“You are president of social media. You cannot rule Nigeria with social media,” Wike said.
He maintained that running the country demands prior practical experience, institutional capacity and a verifiable performance record, qualities he said Obi does not possess.
Warning over online political backing
Wike also argued that supporters campaigning for Obi across X, Facebook and Instagram would not be available to carry out the work of government should he win election.
Nigeria, he said, needs a leader with hands-on governing experience rather than a candidate whose support is driven primarily by digital popularity.
Obi had yet to issue a response to Wike’s remarks when this report was filed.
