In a candid media interaction on Monday in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike expressed deep emotional distress over what he described as a betrayal by the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike revealed that he often weeps when reflecting on Fubara’s actions, despite having played a pivotal role in ensuring Fubara’s succession.
Wike stated, “When I go back in my quiet moments, I play the video of speeches of the governor (Fubara), what he said, what he did to me, I weep.” He questioned the necessity of Fubara’s actions, considering the support he had provided. “This is somebody who brought you, gave you food, gave you everything, did this to you, and then you became a tool for his enemies to fight him,” Wike lamented.
The fallout between Wike and Fubara has been a subject of public interest, especially following Fubara’s suspension from office in March 2025. Wike’s emotional response underscores the personal and political complexities involved in their relationship.
In a separate development, Wike addressed recent comments made by former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, regarding economic hardship in Nigeria. Amaechi, during his 60th birthday celebrations, claimed, “We’re all hungry, all of us are.” He criticized the opposition, stating, “If you want us to remove the man in power, we can remove him from this power.”
Wike dismissed Amaechi’s remarks as politically motivated. “We have no time to listen to nonsense in Nigeria,” Wike retorted. He questioned Amaechi’s sudden concern for hunger, pointing out that during his tenure as Speaker, Governor, and Minister, Amaechi never highlighted issues of hunger. “He was Speaker from 1999 to 2007, Governor from 2007 to 2015, and Minister from 2015 to 2023. He never spoke about hunger during those years,” Wike noted.
Wike further criticized Amaechi’s political maneuvering, suggesting that his current alliances are driven by personal ambition rather than genuine concern for the nation’s welfare. “Now they are regrouping. Thank God we did not support the PDP; otherwise, he would have taken the glory,” Wike remarked. He advised Amaechi to focus on addressing issues within Rivers State before seeking national prominence.
The ongoing political dynamics in Rivers State continue to capture public attention, with figures like Wike and Amaechi playing significant roles in shaping the discourse. Their interactions and statements reflect the intricate nature of Nigerian politics, where personal relationships often intersect with broader political ambitions.