Will You Still Buy Corn After Winning? – Wike Mocks Politicians Campaign Strategies

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised politicians who, according to him, use staged displays of humility and sympathy to deceive Nigerians during election campaigns.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Wike made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while speaking at his induction into the Idoma Hall of Fame.

The minister accused some politicians of attempting to present themselves as people who understand the struggles of ordinary Nigerians by engaging in activities they rarely undertake outside election periods.

He cited examples such as buying roasted corn and groundnuts from roadside vendors, visiting filling stations to comment on fuel prices, and celebrating birthdays at camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Wike argued that such gestures could be attempts to win public sympathy rather than genuine demonstrations of concern for the people.

“ You know politicians can tell lies. Yes, a man who, as a governor, never celebrated his birthday in IDP camps, now wants to do it there because he wants to be president. And you’ll say he’s humble. Which humility is that?” Wike said.

He also questioned the sincerity of politicians who buy roadside snacks during campaigns to portray themselves as being close to the masses.

According to the minister, such actions raise questions about whether the politicians would continue those practices after securing electoral victory.

“You were a governor and you didn’t buy corn on the road. Now you want to be president. When they vote for you, will you still go and buy corn on the road? Who are you deceiving?” he asked.

Wike further criticised politicians who visit filling stations to express concern about the cost of petrol, arguing that public officeholders should already understand the economic challenges facing Nigerians without staging such visits.

He also questioned why some Nigerians interpret these campaign activities as evidence of humility, suggesting that voters should look beyond public appearances when assessing political leaders.

The minister’s remarks come amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with politicians expected to intensify efforts to attract public support.