Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has defended his decision to overlook Nyesom Wike as his running mate in the 2023 presidential election, stating that leadership requires character, composure, and unity—not just popularity.

Speaking in an interview, Atiku revealed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had set up a committee to recommend potential vice-presidential candidates. The committee ranked Ifeanyi Okowa first, Wike second, and Udom Emmanuel third, leading Atiku to select Okowa.

“In 2019, I was accused of not consulting widely when I picked Peter Obi. So in 2023, I allowed the party to decide. I simply picked the number one choice,” Atiku explained.

Wike, who now serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), opposed Atiku’s candidacy after being overlooked and instead supported President Bola Tinubu.

Following Atiku’s remarks, Wike’s spokesman, Lere Olayinka, criticized him on social media, vowing that Wike would ensure Atiku never succeeds in future presidential attempts.

Atiku’s media office responded by dismissing Wike’s reaction as “emotional outbursts fueled by bitterness.” The statement emphasized that leadership is about temperament and the ability to unify, not just political influence.

“A man may boast of numbers, but if his conduct lacks grace and humility, those numbers are empty,” Atiku’s camp stated, adding that Wike’s leadership style as Rivers governor and FCT minister has vindicated their decision.

They urged Wike and his allies to move beyond “bruised egos” and focus on rebuilding the party and Nigeria.