Fresh controversy has emerged within Nigeria’s political space following calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remove the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over remarks described as divisive and politically inappropriate. The demand, made by a prominent journalists’ forum, has intensified discussions around party loyalty, ministerial discipline, and internal cohesion within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The call was issued by the Karamchi Online Journalists Forum, which expressed strong displeasure over Wike’s recent public comments concerning Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. According to the group, the minister’s statements were disrespectful and amounted to undue interference in the political affairs of a sitting governor who is now aligned with the APC.
In a statement signed by its national chairman, Comrade Sani Ahmad, the forum argued that Wike’s conduct contradicts the values of mutual respect and unity expected within the ruling party. Ahmad stated that it was unacceptable for a serving minister, who is not officially a member of the APC, to publicly undermine or intimidate a governor operating under the party’s platform.
The group further warned that such actions could weaken party unity and damage public confidence ahead of future electoral contests. It urged President Tinubu to intervene decisively by calling the minister to order or considering his removal from office to preserve internal harmony and political stability.
The controversy stems from comments attributed to Wike suggesting that Governor Fubara is not guaranteed an automatic second-term ticket. Critics interpreted the remarks as an attempt to exert political pressure and an overreach of authority, especially given Wike’s current role in the federal cabinet rather than within party structures.
Beyond the journalists’ forum, concerns about the FCT minister’s political posture have also been echoed by some leaders within the APC. The party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, reportedly suggested that Wike should step aside from his ministerial role if he intends to remain deeply involved in political affairs in Rivers State. This position highlights growing unease within the party over the minister’s dual political engagements.
Supporters of Wike, however, have dismissed the calls for his removal as politically motivated. They argue that the former Rivers State governor has remained committed to the Tinubu administration and has contributed significantly to governance, particularly through infrastructure development and administrative reforms in the FCT. According to them, his performance in office should be assessed based on service delivery rather than political disagreements.
Despite the mounting criticism, Wike has consistently reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu and publicly pledged support for the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He has also maintained that his political views are guided by principle and experience, not personal vendettas.
As debates continue, political analysts note that the situation presents a test for President Tinubu’s leadership style, especially in balancing political alliances with party discipline. Whether the presidency will heed the growing calls or allow the matter to subside remains to be seen, but the episode underscores the fragile dynamics shaping Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
