The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has fired back at comments attributed to the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Mbata, who allegedly described him as a semi-illiterate. Wike’s response has further intensified public debate around the political rivalry and personal attacks increasingly shaping national discourse.
Wike made the remarks during a live broadcast monitored on TVC, where he addressed criticisms reportedly made by Mbata regarding his educational background and intellectual capacity. The former Rivers State governor appeared visibly unimpressed by the comment, describing it as both misleading and ironic, given what he claimed to be Mbata’s own academic history.
According to Wike, the Ohanaeze leader, who once served as a senator, was unable to complete his law programme at Rivers State University. He contrasted this with his own academic journey, stressing that he not only studied law successfully but also graduated, attended the Nigerian Law School, and returned fully qualified to practice.
Wike emphasized that he passed through the same educational system that his critics now attempt to ridicule, insisting that his achievements speak for themselves. He noted that his rise from a law student to a senior advocate of political relevance and a cabinet minister did not happen by accident but through discipline, perseverance, and commitment.
In his words, “Somebody who was a senator said the Minister of FCT is a semi-illiterate, but the same person dropped out from Rivers State University when he was reading law, he couldn’t make it. I went to university, finished, went to the same university where I read law. I went to law school, came back, and today I’m alive.”
The FCT minister further argued that he owes no one an explanation about his educational qualifications, adding that public service records and personal accomplishments should be the true measure of credibility. He maintained that attempts to belittle him intellectually were politically motivated and aimed at undermining his influence in national affairs.
Wike, known for his blunt and combative political style, also questioned the moral authority of leaders who resort to personal attacks rather than constructive engagement. He suggested that such remarks diminish the quality of leadership discourse and distract from pressing national issues that demand serious attention.
Political observers note that the exchange reflects deeper tensions between key political actors and influential socio-cultural organizations in the country. Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural group, has often played an active role in national conversations, particularly on issues of equity, inclusion, and political power-sharing. As such, comments from its leadership frequently attract wide public interest and scrutiny.
Supporters of Wike argue that his response was justified, describing the “semi-illiterate” label as unfair and disrespectful, especially given his academic and professional credentials. They point to his tenure as governor and now as FCT minister as evidence of competence and capacity.
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