Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to the controversial divisive comment allegedly made by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, saying Nigerians deserve an apology.

Atiku had on Sunday in Kaduna stated that the north needs a Northern candidates when it comes to the presidency.

“I know the whole of this country. I have built bridges across this country. I think what the average northerner needs is somebody who is from the north, who also understands the other parts of Nigeria, and who has been able to build bridges across the rest of the country.

“This is what the northerner needs. He (the northerner) doesn’t need a Yoruba candidate or an Igbo candidate. This is what the northerner needs. I stand before you as a pan-Nigerian of northern origin,” Atiku opined.

In his reaction to the comments which have generated heated arguments across the country, Governor Wike said while he wasn't sure Atiku made those comments, it would justify his fight for equity, justice and fairness in the PDP if it is true that the former vice president said so.

According to him, the party must urgently address the issue and appeal to Nigerians lest the people stop rallying behind the PDP and begin to see the party as one where justice and equity do not abound.

Governor Wike also said the defence of the National Chairman of the Party, Iyorchia Ayu on the corruption allegation against him is ridiculous.

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