Activist and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial aspirant, Aisha Yesufu, has brushed aside suggestions that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike could pose a challenge to her political ambitions, insisting that her focus remains solely on securing the support and mandate of the people.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics, Yesufu stated that she does not view Wike as a political obstacle because he occupies an appointed position, while her interest lies in elective politics and public support.
The former member of the African Democratic Congress said her immediate priority is to secure the senatorial ticket of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to her, residents of Abuja deserve a credible and people-focused alternative capable of reshaping the political landscape in the nation’s capital.
“There are some people who have said they are going to take over Abuja and all of that. We want to give people a viable option that they can be proud of and passionate about,” she said.
Yesufu stressed that her political journey is not centred on competing with political appointees but on earning the trust and votes of constituents.
“I don’t have a Wike to contend with because that’s an appointee. I’m not in the business of appointments. I’m in the business of looking for the mandate of the people. Wike is an appointee; I have no business with appointees,” she stated.
The activist further appealed to residents of the FCT and members of the NDC to actively support her during the party’s primary election process, noting that public admiration and popularity alone would not guarantee electoral success.
She emphasized the importance of active participation from supporters, urging them not to assume victory was already assured.
“Yes, people may assume I already have it, but that is not enough. I need people to come out and vote during the primaries,” she added.
Yesufu explained that discussions around other contenders for the FCT senatorial seat would only become relevant after she secures her party’s ticket.
She identified current FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe and former Senate Minority Leader Philip Aduda as figures she would engage politically after emerging as the NDC candidate.
The activist also disclosed that she has concluded consultations and screening processes ahead of the election cycle and expressed confidence in her ability to bring fresh ideas and a new style of leadership into politics.
She assured constituents that accountability and responsiveness would remain key priorities if elected into office.
Speaking on the internal crisis affecting the ADC, Yesufu described the situation as unfortunate and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic development.
According to her, strong and stable political parties remain essential to building a healthy democratic system and ensuring national progress.
The contest for the FCT senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections is gradually shaping into a major political battle involving three prominent figures — incumbent Senator Kingibe, former Senator Aduda, and Yesufu, should she emerge as the NDC candidate.
Kingibe previously secured the ADC ticket following a landslide victory in the party primary, while Aduda emerged as the candidate of the APC.
However, political observers continue to express concerns over the influence of Wike within the FCT political structure, particularly following his active role in grassroots politics and recent council elections across the territory.
Aisha Yesufu Dismisses Wike Factor, Sets Sights on FCT Senate Seat
