Nyesom Wike defends his contributions to Rivers State despite criticism from local figures, emphasizing that the state has the highest number of appointees in President Tinubu’s government. He responds to critics, highlighting his past projects, and defends his role in federal appointments, showcasing the ongoing transformation in Abuja.
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has responded robustly to criticisms from his critics in Rivers State. Some detractors, including Celestine Omehia and Uche Secondus, had accused Wike of failing to attract federal projects to the state. These remarks came amid a series of project inaugurations by Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Rivers.
Speaking at a PDP End of Year Thanksgiving event in Ahoada East, Wike highlighted that Rivers State boasts the highest number of appointees in President Bola Tinubu's cabinet, a claim he believes underscores his political influence. He criticized Omehia, calling him an "imbecile," for questioning his contributions to Rivers. Wike stressed that while he is the FCT Minister, his previous roles, including in education, led to notable developments in Rivers, such as the establishment of a law faculty at the University of Port Harcourt.
Wike further defended his legacy by citing infrastructure projects he had initiated as governor, including the dualization of roads and funding for schools. In addition, he highlighted the strong political appointments he secured for Rivers under the current administration, challenging Omehia to recognize this achievement.
The former governor aimed Secondus, who had called him an "enemy of the state." Wike reminded Secondus of their past political differences, including the latter’s attempt to install his cousin as governor. Despite the tensions, Wike remains firm in his belief that his contributions to Rivers and the nation’s political landscape cannot be overlooked.
