The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared his readiness to confront former Transport Minister and key opposition coalition member, Rotimi Amaechi, over calls for Nigerians to revolt against the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking on Friday during the commissioning of the newly rehabilitated Aguma Palace–Radio Nigeria–New Market Road in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, Wike warned that any attempt by Amaechi to stir a revolt would be fiercely resisted, starting in their home state of Rivers.
His remarks come in response to Amaechi’s comments on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday night, where the former minister urged Nigerians to rise against what he described as the failings of Tinubu’s government.
Wike, who served as Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, reminded supporters of his past electoral battles with Amaechi, insisting he had defeated him before and would do so again.
“I was not a governor when I refused some people from bringing their successor. In 2015, I defeated a very powerful governor who wanted his boy to be governor,” Wike said. “In 2019, a super minister borrowing money from Chinese banks, making us highly indebted — he was DG for the President’s campaign — yet he couldn’t deliver 20 percent for Mr President then. I defeated him.”
Taking a direct swipe at Amaechi, Wike challenged him to lead the revolt he is calling for with his own family.
“You that are inciting Nigerians to revolt, I’m waiting for you in Rivers State. You will start there first and lead it with your children,” Wike warned. “It’s not that your children will be in London while you are here saying people should come out and revolt. If you can come with your children, we will face ourselves — then we’ll know you really mean what you are saying.”
The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu.
The exchange further highlights the simmering tensions within Rivers State politics and the broader national opposition realignment as political actors gear up for the 2027 general elections.
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