Running Mate Controversy: Atiku And Wike Camps In Fresh War Over Okowa’s Selection

The Renewed Controversy Over PDP’s Running Mate Choice

The debate over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) running mate selection during the 2023 presidential election has resurfaced. A report recently brought to light suggests that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was initially favored over Ifeanyi Okowa, a claim that contradicts former PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar’s previous statements.

Leaked Report Reignites Political Tensions

The controversy was reignited by Mr. Lere Olayinka, an aide to Nyesom Wike. The PDP committee’s report, signed by former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu and other key leaders, was dated June 14, 2022, and reportedly sighted by LMSINT MEDIA.

The report, titled “Report of the Advisory Committee for the Selection of Presidential Running Mate,” indicated the following preference order:

Governor Nyesom Wike
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa
Governor Udom Emmanuel

The committee’s decision was based on the broader interests of the party. The report was signed by notable PDP figures, including Umar I. Damagun, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Bala Mohammed, Olusegun Mimiko, and David Mark.

Atiku’s Claim vs. Wike’s Camp Response

Atiku Abubakar, in an interview with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, claimed that the committee ranked Okowa as the top choice, with Wike coming second and Udom Emmanuel third. He defended his decision to pick Okowa based on the committee’s recommendation.

However, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, accused Atiku of distorting facts. He urged the former Vice President to seek forgiveness, stating:

“Someone needs to show this to Atiku so that he can seek forgiveness before Ramadan ends.”

Olayinka further alleged that Atiku misrepresented the committee’s findings to justify his choice of Okowa.

Atiku’s Camp Responds to Allegations

Atiku’s media team dismissed Olayinka’s statements as an “emotional outburst” and reaffirmed that Okowa’s selection was based on intellect, composure, and statesmanship rather than party politics.

In a statement, Atiku’s media office emphasized:

“While we understand that bitterness often finds expression in misplaced aggression, we must remind Wike and his team that a bitter heart isn’t capable of charity, nor does it inspire unity, healing, or truth.”

They reiterated that Atiku had no apologies for choosing Okowa over Wike, as the decision aligned with his vision for national leadership.

Internal Party Division and Political Fallout

The renewed controversy reflects the ongoing internal tensions within the PDP. While Wike’s faction insists on the validity of the leaked committee report, Atiku’s supporters maintain that his choice was the right decision for the party and the nation.

This division highlights broader challenges within the PDP as it seeks to rebuild its political strategy ahead of future elections.

Conclusion

The verbal war between Atiku and Wike’s camps over Okowa’s selection as PDP’s running mate in 2023 underscores lingering political rivalries. As the PDP navigates these internal disputes, the party’s ability to unite and strategize for upcoming elections remains a critical concern.

For further insights into Nigeria’s political landscape, check out our in-depth analysis on Nigerian Political Party Leadership and Election Strategy and Political Alliances.