Political War Heats Up: Wike Fires At Gov Mohammed Over Alleged Banditry Claims

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has mocked Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, asserting that the governor lacks the political structure and internal unity needed to groom a successor successfully.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Wike made the remarks during a thank-you visit to Abua-Odual Local Government Area in Rivers State, where he addressed party supporters and local political stakeholders.

According to the former Rivers State governor, the political difficulties facing Mohammed are self-inflicted, stemming from weak leadership and unresolved internal contradictions.

“Bala Mohammed came to my state trying to impose party leadership. I warned him to tread carefully and leave my state alone,” Wike said.

“I told him there would be consequences, and today he doesn’t even have a party to produce a successor.”

Wike also dismissed claims by Mohammed that he was behind the political turmoil in Bauchi State.

“He said all his problems are because of me, that I claimed I would ‘set the place on fire,’” Wike recounted.

“If you have that power, go ahead and use it. Face your problems yourself.”

He emphasized that political leaders must recognize their limits and avoid conflicts they cannot manage.

“If you know you lack the strength to fight, why create problems you cannot handle?” he asked.

Responding to personal attacks, including being labeled a semi-illiterate and a former car washer, Wike said such remarks do not diminish his political achievements.

“I have no problem with that. At least I am semi-literate, not completely illiterate,” he said.

“Someone who once washed cars has become a local government chairman, governor of one of Nigeria’s most important states, and a two-time minister.”

He further challenged critics, especially former lawmakers, to account for their years in public office instead of resorting to insults.

“If you were a senator for eight years, tell your people what you accomplished. That is not abuse; that is accountability,” he stated.

Wike reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Rivers State has benefitted immensely under the current administration.

“The appointments Rivers State has received under President Tinubu are unprecedented in the history of this state,” Wike said.

“That is why I can confidently urge Rivers people to support him.”

He added that political decisions should be guided by conscience, performance, and tangible results—not convenience.

“Yes, we need money, but we cannot sell our conscience. We will always do what is right,” he said.

Wike also criticized politicians who align with every incoming government, regardless of principles, describing such conduct as a failure of leadership.

“You cannot be in every government and claim never to see wrongdoing. That is not leadership,” he said.

He concluded by expressing confidence in his record and political choices, emphasizing that Nigerians are increasingly judging leaders by performance.

“When you tell people the truth, they may get angry. But the truth remains the truth,” Wike said.