Atiku Lied About Running Mate Selection, Cannot Be Trusted – Wike’s Aide

Atiku Lied About Running Mate Selection, Cannot Be Trusted – Wike’s Aide

Abuja, Nigeria – Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of lying about the process that led to the selection of his running mate in the 2023 presidential election.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, Olayinka dismissed Atiku’s claim that he picked former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, based on the recommendation of a committee set up by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to him, the recently released report of the committee contradicted Atiku’s assertion and proved that the former vice president acted independently.

“Atiku and his media office have now admitted that the final decision rested solely with him, confirming that he disregarded the committee’s recommendations,” Olayinka said. “This proves that Atiku lied and does not respect the PDP as a party.”

Olayinka further stated that Minister Wike was never interested in being Atiku’s running mate, citing Atiku’s "enormous baggage." He also reaffirmed Wike’s lack of regret for opposing Atiku during the 2023 election.

“It is clear that Atiku made his choice, and he should take responsibility for it instead of distorting facts to justify his decision,” he added. “Just as Atiku has no regret over his choice, Wike also has no regrets about the stand he took.”

He criticized Atiku for attempting to use “more lies to defend his previous lies” and questioned Atiku’s current political allegiance, stating that his history of switching parties had been detrimental to the PDP’s stability.

“With the 2027 elections approaching, Atiku must first clarify which party he belongs to because PDP has not entered into any coalition with another political party,” Olayinka stated.

The statement comes amid ongoing tensions within the PDP, with party leaders grappling with internal divisions following the 2023 election loss.

Lere Olayinka

Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media
March 30, 2025