Wike Defends Tinubu, Rebukes Sowore
In a combative interview on Politics Today, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike lashed out at activist Omoyele Sowore for calling President Bola Tinubu a “criminal” on social media.
“This is a country where somebody on social media will say Mr President is a criminal; nothing will happen. You are lucky you have a President who believes in the rule of law,” Wike said, warning Sowore that another leader might not be so tolerant.
The clash comes after the Department of State Services filed charges against Sowore for defamation, prompting condemnation from Amnesty International, which described the move as “a desperate attempt at censorship and abuse of power.”
Denies Health Rumours
Wike also dismissed claims that he had travelled abroad for urgent medical treatment, insisting he had only taken a holiday since assuming office in 2023.
“I heard they said I had a heart attack. God will continue to help them to have heart attacks. It is my prayer that I will sign their condolences,” he quipped.
The minister stressed he remains fully engaged in Abuja projects, saying his brief London trip was simply for rest.
Renewed Feud with Tambuwal
Wike reignited his long-running feud with former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal, branding him “consistently inconsistent” and accusing him of betrayal during the 2022 PDP presidential primaries.
He recalled losing the ticket to Atiku Abubakar after Tambuwal stepped down and directed his delegates to back Atiku: “Because of Tambuwal, I had to take the national convention to Port Harcourt. He has never stood firm in politics.”
Context: Sowore, Amnesty, and 2027
Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters and AAC presidential candidate, has long been a thorn in the side of Nigeria’s political elite, challenging both APC and PDP. His clash with Tinubu has escalated amid growing online activism, with Amnesty International warning the DSS against harassing him.
Wike’s aggressive defence of Tinubu positions him as one of the president’s staunchest southern allies ahead of the 2027 elections, even as opposition figures attempt to exploit discontent over economic reforms.
Impact: Wike as Tinubu’s Southern Anchor
Analysts say Wike’s intervention bolsters Tinubu’s credibility among loyalists while isolating opposition voices. But critics argue that his rhetoric — warning Sowore he is “lucky” Tinubu believes in rule of law — exposes the fragility of Nigeria’s democratic tolerance.
The minister’s mix of loyalty to Tinubu and hostility toward rivals cements his reputation as a political brawler whose influence will remain pivotal in the countdown to 2027.
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