I Paid Every Dime! – Wike Slams Critics Over Rolls-Royce Ownership

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly rejected claims that he received a Rolls-Royce as a bribe or political gift, insisting he personally purchased the luxury vehicle.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday night, the former Rivers State governor dismissed corruption allegations, asserting that his financial stability predates his entry into politics.

“Yes, I own a Rolls-Royce. So what? No one gave it to me—I bought it with my own money,” Wike stated.

Responding to public speculation about how he could afford such a vehicle, Wike explained,

“People ask, ‘Where did he get the money?’ Well, I come from a well-off family. My father was a general manager in several companies. I didn’t grow up poor.”

He added that even as a student, he lived a comfortable lifestyle, including driving a Mercedes-Benz, and rejected the narrative that his wealth is sudden or suspicious.

On corruption allegations, Wike strongly denied any wrongdoing, saying no court has ever found him guilty of corrupt practices.

“When people call you corrupt, what exactly do they mean? I’ve never been convicted or indicted. Wanting to care for your family or pay school fees doesn’t make you corrupt.”

Addressing rumors that he owns multiple properties across Nigeria, Wike didn’t confirm details but defended his right to own assets given his long public service career.

“I was Speaker for four years, and Governor for eight. Of course, I own property. But that’s not corruption. I didn’t just wake up rich—I come from a structured, privileged background. In my local government, my father owned one of the few duplexes back then.”

Wike also took a swipe at his longtime political rival, Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of projecting his own misdeeds onto others.

“Someone claimed I got the Rolls-Royce from a contractor. That’s false. That’s what he did, not me. That’s why he’s upset.”

Wike concluded by drawing a sharp line between himself and his critics: