Wike Slams Governor Mohammed: “You Don’t Even Have A Party

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, asserting that the governor lacks the political structure and cohesion necessary to produce a successor. Wike made the remarks during a thank-you visit to Abua-Odual Local Government Area in Rivers State, where he addressed supporters and political stakeholders.

The former Rivers State governor described the political challenges confronting Governor Mohammed as self-inflicted, attributing them to weak leadership and unresolved internal contradictions. “Bala Mohammed came to my state and tried to impose party leadership. I warned him to be careful and to leave my state alone,” Wike said. “I told him there would be consequences, and today, he does not even have a party to produce his successor.”

Wike dismissed allegations from Mohammed claiming that he was responsible for political tensions in Bauchi State. “He said all the problems he is facing are because of me, that I claimed I would put fire there. If you have such power, go ahead and use it. Face your problems,” he said.

The minister emphasised that political leaders must understand their limitations and avoid conflicts they cannot manage. “If you know you do not have the strength to fight, why don’t you retreat? Why create problems you cannot manage?” he asked.

Responding to personal attacks, including being described as a semi-illiterate and a former motor washer, Wike highlighted his political achievements. “I have no problem with that. At least I am semi-literate and not completely illiterate. Someone who washed cars became chairman of a local government, governor of one of the most important states in Nigeria, and a two-time minister,” he stated.

Wike also challenged critics, particularly former lawmakers, to account for their performance in office rather than resorting to name-calling. “If you were a senator for eight years, tell your people what you did. That is not abuse; that is accountability,” he said.

Reaffirming his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wike stated that Rivers State had benefited significantly from the current administration. “The appointments Rivers State has received under President Tinubu have never happened in the history of this state. That is why I can boldly tell Rivers people to support him,” he added.

He further argued that political decisions should be guided by conscience, performance, and tangible results, rather than convenience. “Yes, we need money, but we cannot sell our conscience. We will always do the right thing,” Wike said.

Criticising politicians who align with every government in power, he described such behavior as a failure of leadership. “You cannot be in every government and never see anything wrong. That is not leadership,” he said. Wike concluded by expressing confidence in his political record, noting that Nigerians are increasingly evaluating leaders based on performance. “When you tell people the truth, they get angry. But the truth remains the truth,” he said.