The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the possibility of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar contesting the 2027 presidential election, declaring that there is “no space” for him.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while addressing journalists during an inspection of ongoing road projects in Kuje Area Council, Abuja. He suggested that Atiku should instead consider the 2031 election cycle.
“There is no space for him in 2027. He can wait till 2031… we will encourage him to run then,” Wike said.
The minister also criticised Atiku for his frequent attacks on the current administration, arguing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has performed better than during Atiku’s time in office.
Addressing another issue, Wike denied allegations that he ordered the revocation of the licence of Rainbow Event Centre, the venue used by the African Democratic Congress for its national convention held on February 14, 2026.
The ADC had earlier accused authorities in the FCT of denying it access to several venues and attempting to prevent the use of the facility for its convention.
Reacting, Wike said he had no involvement in the matter and directed his Chief of Staff to investigate the claims and identify any official who may have interfered.
“We will not allow people to just wake up and accuse the FCT Minister. I have asked my Chief of Staff to find out which staff was involved, and we will get to the root of it,” he said.
He further urged the ADC to focus on resolving its internal challenges rather than blaming external forces, insisting the party was already on a path to failure.
