The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed growing calls for his removal from office, saying President Bola Tinubu has the sole authority to sack him if he so desires.
Wike’s comments followed an open letter by critics operating under the APC Leaders Forum and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement, who accused him of insubordination, anti-party activities, and posing a threat to national unity, and urged the President to remove him to ease the political crisis in Rivers State.
Speaking during a “thank you” visit to Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Wike said, “If my appointor believes that I cannot offer anything again, he has the right. It’s not that you should tell him.”
The minister said persistent criticism was a reflection of his performance in office, adding, “I am proud, and Rivers people are proud, and we can tell Nigerians that we have not disappointed them as far as FCT is concerned,” insisting that “if you are not doing well, nobody will talk about you.”
Wike also took aim at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his supporters ahead of the 2027 elections, saying, “I dont understand people who couldnt give Atiku Abubakar ten percent in 2023 are people who are now saying they want to deliver the presidency,” adding that, “We are the ones who have been passing every election… How can somebody who failed come and lead their own campaign?”