I Challenge Those Who’re Gov In This State Under Obasanjo, Jonathan and Minister Under Buhari — Wike

According to a report by TVC News on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended his political legacy and ongoing alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, dismissing criticisms from detractors and challenging former Rivers State leaders to publicly account for their records in office.

Wike made the remarks during a public address, where he reacted to renewed criticisms over projects, foundations, and political choices, particularly in Rivers State. He insisted that recent controversies ignored the origins of key initiatives and the individuals who laid their groundwork. “Today, I hear people are making noise,” Wike said.

He accused critics of deliberately overlooking the beginnings of major developments. “They even forgot who laid the foundation,” he added.

Addressing issues surrounding project financing, Wike disclosed the extent of his financial commitment, noting that substantial progress had already been made. “I have paid about 70%,” he said. Recalling an encounter related to land allocation, the former Rivers State governor provided details of an offer he declined. “I remember that day. They gave me 100 plus on land,” Wike said.

He explained that he rejected the offer outright. “I said, thank you. I don’t need land there. I said, thank you,” he stated. Reflecting on the current political climate, Wike expressed uncertainty about changing perceptions, while reaffirming confidence in his past decisions. “But I don’t know what it is today, you will tell,” he said.

He repeatedly maintained that his political judgments had been sound. “I didn’t make a mistake. We never made a mistake,” Wike declared. Wike also reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Tinubu, stressing that his loyalty remained intact. “I will not make a mistake in continuing support Tinubu,” he said.

In a direct challenge widely interpreted as being aimed at former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, Wike called on past leaders to publicly justify their records. “I challenge those who are governor in this state under Obasanjo,” he said.

He extended the challenge to leaders who served under subsequent administrations. “I challenge those who are governor in this state under Jonathan and became minister under Buhari,” Wike added. According to him, accountability should involve transparent disclosure of achievements during those periods. “Let them come out and read out what we achieved during that period,” he said.

Wike contrasted those administrations with his current role at the federal level, asserting that his record as FCT Minister speaks for itself. “I read out what we have achieved now as a minister,” he stated. He concluded by crediting President Tinubu for what he described as historic accomplishments. “It is unprecedented in the history of this country who did it, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Wike said.

Watch the video below from minutes 1:56 to 2:19: