FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed that Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki and Pastor Ituah Ighodalo approached him twice to seek his support for the upcoming governorship election. Wike declined, pledging neutrality in the race. His statement comes amid concerns of political interference in the Edo election.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, recently disclosed that Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, along with Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, twice sought his backing for the upcoming governorship election in Edo. Despite the requests, Wike declined to endorse their candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on September 13, 2024, Wike explained that Obaseki visited his home on two occasions, accompanied by Ighodalo, asking for his support. However, Wike made it clear that he would not involve himself in the race, opting to remain neutral in the election.
“They came to my house twice asking for my support,” Wike remarked. “But I told them I wasn’t interested. I previously supported him, but it didn’t turn out well. This time, I want no part in it.”
Wike’s statement comes amid growing concerns from within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) about potential interference in the Edo election. Edo PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemhin had previously raised alarms, alleging ties between Wike and the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Edo, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, claiming the relationship could influence the election outcome. Aziegbemhin called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeploy Onuoha to maintain the election’s integrity.
However, Wike dismissed these claims, insisting that he remains impartial in the upcoming polls and has no intention of backing any candidate. His stance reflects ongoing political maneuvering within the PDP, as internal power struggles continue ahead of the critical Edo governorship election.
