Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former governor of Rivers State, has distanced himself from the screening of aspirants conducted by the All Progressives Congress in the state. He emphasized that he is not a member of the APC and therefore cannot comment on the process.
Wike's Reaction to APC Screening
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, May 11, Wike was asked about reports that the APC screening committee had cleared only aspirants loyal to him, while those loyal to his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, were disqualified. The former governor stated that Fubara never informed him of any challenges within the APC, and he is not a prophet or native doctor to know what is happening in the party.
Wike said: "I am not a member of the APC, so I don’t know what is happening in their screening. Even if they publish the results, why would I comment? I don’t know the reasons they have. What pertains to me is what I will talk about, not what does not concern me. Governor Fubara didn't tell me he has any problem in the APC. I’m not a native doctor, nor am I a prophet to know what's happening in the APC."
Nigerians React to Wike's Statement
The video of Wike's interview has sparked reactions from Nigerians. Here are some comments:
- Ọlánrewájú Ìdòwú praised Wike's sagacity: "Sometimes, there are some wars you can't win. Wike is one of those wars. Fubara has done his best. For someone like me, I appreciate 6 months as a governor and not 4 years."
- Justin Briggs analyzed the situation: "Two neighbouring families. Family B screens & disqualifies 65 of their own. Journalist runs to Family A's head for comment. He shrugs: 'I'm not in Family B. I don't know their reasons. Their head never told me any problem. I'm no native doctor or prophet. Let them settle their family matter.' That's Wike on Rivers APC screening. Stay in your lane. Dey your Dey."
- Onyeani Kalu commended the minister: "Wike has cleared himself from the Rivers State APC Mess. I blame the State Party for their anti-Fubara behaviours."
- Masta Fari urged politicians to stop underrating the FCT Minister: "How long will they continue to underestimate Wike? This man has shown time and again that he's a mastermind in politics."
- Badprince commented: "From his tone, you will know he has done something, hence he doesn't want to show it, like he is behind what's happening."
Wike's statement comes amid ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, as the APC screening process has reportedly deepened divisions between factions loyal to Wike and Fubara. The minister's refusal to engage further underscores his strategy of staying above the fray.
