Veteran journalist and media personality Reuben Abati has launched a blistering critique of Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), accusing him of being disrespectful to his political mentors and warning President Bola Tinubu to exercise caution in dealing with him.
Speaking on Arise TV on Tuesday morning, Abati reacted strongly to Wike’s recent dig at Rotimi Amaechi, his former political ally and predecessor in Rivers State. Wike had dismissed Amaechi’s comments on hunger in Nigeria as mere “hunger for power.”
“Now that they are out of power, they say they are hungry. It’s not hunger for food. It’s hunger for power,” Wike said during a press chat on Monday, June 3.
Abati didn’t hold back, calling Wike “rude” and guilty of biting the hands that once fed him.
“I think that Nyesom Wike is very rude and disrespectful. Rotimi Amaechi is his boss in politics. When he was a local government chairman, it was Amaechi who helped him rise,” Abati said.
He accused Wike of having a long track record of disrespecting former political benefactors, citing past incidents involving Peter Odili, Senator John Mbata, and others.
“He once said Peter Odili didn’t qualify to be an elder. He referred to him as ‘one man’ and his wife as ‘one woman.’ Who hasn’t he insulted?” Abati questioned.
Abati’s most pointed warning was directed at President Tinubu, suggesting that Wike’s loyalty is temporary and based only on self-interest.
“President Tinubu should beware because tomorrow, Wike may insult him just as he has done with Amaechi and others,” he said. “Wike is only interested in his own permanent interests, not permanent friends.”
Abati’s remarks have added a new layer of tension to the political drama unfolding within Rivers State and the federal cabinet, reigniting debates about loyalty, political betrayal, and the character of public officials.
As the Wike-Amaechi rivalry intensifies, and with Abati’s warning echoing across the media, all eyes are now on President Tinubu — will he heed the advice, or continue his alliance with the outspoken FCT Minister?
