Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike appeared healthier and happier during the period the two worked closely in the past.
Obi made the remarks in an online interview while responding to questions about Wike’s recent critical comments against him and his presidential ambition.
The two previously interacted when Obi was governor of Anambra State and Wike served as Minister of State for Education between 2011 and 2014.
During that time, Wike visited Anambra to inspect and commission educational projects under Obi’s administration, including renovated secondary schools.
Asked if he was surprised by Wike’s frequent claims that he would never become president, Obi replied: “Well, if you look at the pictures of Mr Wike when we were moving together, you can see how healthy he is and looking very well. So, that means when we were together, he was a much, much happier person and enjoyed himself.”
He stressed that he holds no grudge against the former Rivers State governor. “But let me assure you, I don’t have anything against Mr Wike. He remains a friend and everything. Sometimes, you can have too much money and everything, but you don’t have happiness.”
Obi clarified that his comment was about happiness, not health, after some interpreted it as suggesting Wike was unwell.
He also dismissed reports that Wike claimed he would be the first target if Obi became president, insisting he has no plans to pursue political opponents.
Wike has publicly supported President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid for 2027 and currently serves in his administration as FCT Minister.