Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stirred political waters with a sharp dismissal of Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions, describing the Labour Party’s flag bearer as a “social media candidate” with no real shot at winning a national election.

 

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike — a former governor of Rivers State — stated that he does not believe Obi possesses the political strength or structure necessary to clinch the presidency.

 

“No, he has no chance to win election,” Wike said pointedly. “I don’t go to where you see people like this kind of social media candidates. I don’t do social media candidate.”

 

The remarks, as reported by The Punch newspaper, have drawn swift reactions from Obi’s supporters, many of whom believe the former Anambra governor represents a new wave of political leadership with strong appeal, particularly among young Nigerians.

 

Peter Obi, who gained significant traction during the last election cycle, has been lauded for his focus on governance, accountability, and economic reform. His campaigns have been buoyed by passionate online support across platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

 

However, Wike’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among some traditional politicians who argue that online popularity does not translate to electoral success in Nigeria’s complex political landscape. They maintain that winning requires deep-rooted political structures, grassroots mobilization, and long-established networks across the country.

 

This isn’t the first time Obi has faced such criticism. While many agree he brings fresh ideas and a reform-driven agenda, critics often point to his perceived lack of nationwide political machinery as a major hurdle.

 

Obi has not yet responded directly to Wike’s remarks, but his loyal base — both online and offline — continues to rally around him, underscoring the generational divide in Nigerian politics.

 

As the nation moves closer to the next general elections, Wike’s comments have once again highlighted the ongoing tension between established political forces and emerging voices calling for change in Nigeria’s leadership. Whether Obi’s movement can defy conventional wisdom and secure nationwide electoral success remains to be seen.