I am Not a Sycophant Says Wike Over Alleged Political Deal

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has hit back at critics suggesting his alliance with President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) was a calculated move to secure his political future.

The Minister stated he takes “serious exception” to the narrative that his support during the 2023 presidential election was part of a “secret bargain” for a cabinet position.

Wike clarified that his decision to back Tinubu was rooted in a belief that the President could stabilize Nigeria, rather than a transactional exchange for power.

Addressing the idea that he is desperate to hold onto his office, Wike reminded the public of his extensive political resume.

Having served as Minister of State for Education prior to his two terms as Governor of Rivers State, he argued that his career does not hinge on a single appointment.

Because of this experience, Wike insisted he has no reason to flatter or appease leaders simply to maintain his status in the federal government.

“Is my decision to work for the APC born out of a need to keep my job? I take exception to that,” Wike declared. “I’ve been a minister before the problem we have in this country is that you think you must be a sycophant before you get a job.”

The Minister urged a shift in the national mindset, calling on Nigerians to stop assuming that every political move is motivated by fear or personal gain.

He maintained that when he publicly declared his support for Tinubu, no conditions regarding his future employment were established.

Wike emphasized that leaders should be evaluated based on their fulfillment of public promises rather than speculative rumors about trading loyalty for “so-and-so” positions.

“I did not say, ‘if I support President Tinubu and he wins, he must give me so‑and‑so.’ No way,” Wike added. “I was a minister, I was a governor, now I’m a minister again, am I going to die in this position? Keeping a job should not arise at all.”