At a stakeholders’ town‑hall in Bonny, Rivers State on Saturday, Federal Capital Territory Minister [Nyesom Wike](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nyesom_Wike) mocked the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential hopeful, former Anambra governor [Peter Obi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Obi), claiming the only way the candidate could win would be through a “social media” election, and insisting he lacked the capacity to govern Nigeria.
**What did Wike say about Obi’s chances?**
Wike told the assembled audience that, “If the contest were for the president of social media, I would vote for him,” but added that he would not support Obi for the actual presidency because “the country’s economy cannot be entrusted to a stingy politician.”
**Key facts from the remarks**
- The comments were made on Saturday during a meeting organised for local stakeholders in Bonny LGA, Rivers State.
- Wike is currently heading the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign in Abuja and Rivers, a role he has used to repeatedly criticize opposition candidates.
- He reiterated confidence that incumbent President Bola Tinubu would secure re‑election on 16 January, dismissing any realistic chance for the opposition.
- The statement was reported by DAILY POST, which noted Wike’s long‑standing antagonism toward Obi and other rivals.
**Why the comment matters**
Wike’s taunt underscores the deep partisan divide ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with the ruling APC seeking to portray opposition figures as out‑of‑touch with Nigeria’s economic realities. By framing Obi as a “social media president,” Wike attempts to diminish his credibility among voters who may view digital popularity as insufficient for national leadership.
**Background on the parties**
The [All Progressives Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Progressives_Congress) is the ruling party that propelled President Bola Tinubu to office in 2023, while the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) is a newer opposition grouping that nominated Obi as its 2027 candidate. Both parties are intensifying campaign activities as the election draws nearer, with rallies, town‑hall meetings, and media appearances becoming increasingly frequent.
**Potential impact on the electorate**
Wike’s remarks may resonate with voters skeptical of politicians who rely heavily on online platforms, but they could also galvanise younger, digitally‑savvy Nigerians who see social media as a legitimate avenue for political engagement. The exchange highlights the broader contest between traditional political structures and emerging digital campaigning tactics in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
Overall, the episode reflects the heightened rhetoric and strategic positioning that will likely characterize the run‑up to the 2027 polls, as the APC seeks to cement Tinubu’s legacy and the NDC strives to present Obi as a viable alternative.