Nigeria's Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has made serious allegations against former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of looting the state's treasury and using public funds to purchase houses for young women. Wike made these claims on October 9, 2026, while reacting to comments attributed to Amaechi about President Bola Tinubu and his supporters.
The allegations were made in response to Amaechi's remarks at a town hall meeting in Benin City, Edo State, where he reportedly described President Tinubu's supporters as "mad people" and "thieves". Wike challenged Amaechi to defend his record in office, questioning his moral authority to make such statements. Wike expressed his support for Tinubu's re-election bid and criticized Amaechi's comments.
Wike further accused Amaechi of failing to account for funds spent on projects during his eight-year tenure as Rivers State governor between 2007 and 2015. He alleged that $39 million was spent on a non-existent project and questioned the reported sale of a state-owned gas company for $380 million.
The FCT minister also criticized the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for choosing Amaechi as its vice-presidential candidate, describing him as a "lunatic" who cannot manage the country's affairs. Wike expressed concerns about the party's choice of leadership and its implications for Nigeria's future.
Amaechi has not publicly responded to Wike's allegations regarding the purchase of houses for young women. However, Wike warned Amaechi that his remarks about Tinubu's supporters could make campaigning difficult for him in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general election.
The exchange between Wike and Amaechi adds to the growing political confrontation between the two former Rivers State governors as political alignments take shape ahead of the 2027 elections. Wike condemned the use of derogatory labels against voters and political opponents, questioning why a candidate would describe supporters of another candidate as thieves or mentally ill.
The confrontation between Wike and Amaechi highlights the increasing tensions within Nigeria's political landscape. The two politicians have a history of disagreements, and their latest exchange is likely to have significant implications for the country's politics in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
Key points
- Wike accuses Amaechi of looting Rivers State treasury and buying houses for young women.
- Amaechi describes President Tinubu's supporters as "mad people" and "thieves".
- The confrontation between Wike and Amaechi adds to the growing tensions within Nigeria's political landscape.
