Activist and former presidential campaign supporter, Aisha Yesufu, has responded to comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following her defeat in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial primary election in the FCT.
Yesufu had joined the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and, on May 6, declared her intention to contest for the FCT senatorial seat. However, she was unsuccessful in securing the party's ticket.
During her campaign, Yesufu had argued that Wike, being an appointed government official, could not determine the outcome of elections. Reacting to her defeat while speaking at a luncheon in Port Harcourt on Saturday, May 30, Wike mocked the activist, saying she could not win what he described as an “ordinary” NDC primary election despite being vocal in the media.
Without mentioning her name directly, Wike questioned her political strength and suggested that public commentary and media appearances do not necessarily translate into electoral success.
In a swift response posted on her X account, Yesufu appeared to take aim at the FCT Minister, challenging him to mention her name openly rather than making indirect references. She also criticized his political record and accused him of serving the interests of others rather than exercising independent authority.
The activist further stated that she would not be intimidated and maintained that political influence should be tested at the ballot box rather than through appointments and political maneuvering.
The exchange has sparked reactions on social media, with supporters of both figures debating the merits of Wike's criticism and Yesufu's response, as political conversations ahead of the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum.
