Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has said opposition parties should “start crying now” because they cannot defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Wike made the remarks during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, while discussing the opposition’s strength following the Osun State governorship election.

Wike Dismisses Opposition Chances

Wike described the opposition as “crippled and depleted,” arguing that its internal divisions and lack of preparation would make it difficult to defeat an incumbent president.

“The only thing they can do now is as usual start crying… but if it is to win election, no… they cannot win,” Wike said.

He added, “If it is this 2027 election against Bola Ahmed Tinubu, forget it. It’s over.”

Minister Compares 2023 and 2027 Elections

The FCT minister contrasted the 2027 contest with the 2023 presidential election, which he described as a difficult and unpredictable race for Tinubu.

Wike also criticised opposition politicians who accuse the government of using “federal might” when they lose elections but celebrate the electoral process when their preferred candidates win.

He argued that governorship elections are influenced heavily by local political dynamics, while presidential elections operate on a different scale.

“A national election is a completely different ballgame,” he said.

Wike Questions Opposition Strategy

According to Wike, defeating an incumbent president requires an organised opposition that has spent years preparing for the election.

“You need a strong, vibrant opposition that has spent over four years planning, not one that is constantly looking for a party to join,” he said.

Wike also acknowledged his role in weakening the opposition, saying he had been part of the political developments that contributed to its current position.

The minister remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but has openly backed Tinubu’s re-election bid, placing him at odds with sections of his party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Opposition Faces Political Realignments

Wike’s comments come amid defections, internal disputes and political realignments across Nigeria’s opposition parties as politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with supporters agreeing with his assessment of the opposition while critics argue that the final decision rests with Nigerian voters.