Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has alleged that renowned journalist Dele Momodu will abandon the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, once financial support from him ceases.
This assertion was made in a statement released on Wednesday by Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
Olayinka criticized Momodu, claiming that he lacks understanding beyond self-interest, particularly for suggesting that Wike was responsible for Peter Obi’s exit from the PDP.
He reaffirmed that Atiku has continuously undermined the PDP’s progress, dating back to his role in obstructing the party’s attempt to win Lagos State in 2003.
Olayinka further questioned the credibility of Momodu’s remarks on national television, particularly his claim that Atiku wanted the PDP to cede the 2023 presidential ticket to the Southeast. He pointed out the contradiction in Atiku purchasing the party’s Expression of Interest Form before any formal zoning decisions were made.
He also posed several rhetorical questions, challenging the idea that Wike was responsible for various political exits from the PDP, such as Senator Gbenga Daniel’s departure shortly after the 2019 elections or the exit of Atiku’s 2023 running mate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa. He also mentioned that Udom Emmanuel, former chairman of the PDP’s 2023 presidential campaign, and his successor, Governor Umo Eno, are distancing themselves from the party.
Olayinka suggested that the common factor driving people away from Atiku may be selfishness on Atiku’s part.
He also dismissed Momodu’s remarks about Wike distancing himself from the Southeast, highlighting Wike’s pride in his Ikwerre heritage and contrasting it with what he called Momodu’s lack of pride in his Edo roots.
Describing Momodu as opportunistic, Olayinka claimed the journalist’s loyalty is financially motivated and will shift once Atiku stops funding him.