Wike

By: Olusola Oludiran   Anyone closely observing Nigeria’s current political landscape cannot ignore the unfolding Wike vs Tinubu power struggle; a contest that is blurring the lines of authority within the presidency. The dynamics between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, have raised eyebrows nationwide. Wike’s growing political influence, despite being a member of the opposition, continues to challenge the internal balance of power in Tinubu’s administration. There is no denying that Wike played a significant role in Tinubu’s victory during the 2023 general elections. Though a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he ensured that their common political rival, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, lost crucial ground in Rivers and other states where Wike wielded considerable influence. His opposition to Atiku stemmed from internal party betrayals and political realignments that he has repeatedly described as acts of treachery from his former allies. In the spirit of Nigeria’s political tradition, where loyalty is often rewarded, Tinubu duly compensated Wike by appointing him as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory—a position rarely held by a southerner. Despite being from an opposition party, Wike has thrived in the APC-led government, expanding his reach and […]