The tussle for the presidential ticket of the main opposition Peoples Democratic is already creating division and descending into political battle between the two leading presidential contenders, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State.While Atiku remains a leading contender from the northern region to fly the presidential ticket of the party ahead of the 2023 presidential race, Wike on the other hand is a leading contender for the PDP presidential ticket from the southern region. On different occasions, Atiku’s supporters have maintained that the former Vice President is a politician that has the influence and political strength to give victory to PDP in 2023, Wike on the other hand faulted the claim when he declared for Presidency in Benue and stated that he is he the only politician that can defeat APC in 2023.However, a report by Vanguard recently showed that the tussle for the PDP presidential ticket has degenerated into a political battle between Atiku Abubakar and Governor Nyesom Wike.
The battle between Wike and Atiku started on March 27 when Wike declared for presidency and launched an attack on top contenders of the PDP presidential ticket.
Wike had challenged the top contenders of the PDP presidential ticket to show their contributions in the party because they once left PDP when the party needed them most and their return after 2015 presidential election has made them ordinary member.
“If you form a company and run away because the company is not doing well, then you come back and found that it is now doing well, will you want to come and take over?.”
Since Wike made the statement, there have been silent battle between the two leading contenders, Atiku and Wike which has also led to verbal war amongst their supporters.
However, there are strong indications that Wike may not win the battle he started with Atiku Abubakar.
Firstly, Wike has to realize that winning the PDP presidential ticket needs diplomacy and negotiation to win some northern cabals to his side. Subtle approach will be easy to convince many northerners to support his ambition rather than making it a battle between him and the former Vice President.
Wike also needs to understand that Atiku has much influence in the 19 northern states and it would be difficult to defeat him if he continues with his approach. It would be difficult for many northerners to support Wike against Atiku Abubakar when the contest has been made to look like a battle between the two political leaders.
If Wike wants to pick the PDP ticket, he needs to change his approach, be subtle in his speech and negotiate with northern cabals to get their backing ahead of the presidential primaries.
PIONEER NEWS 