Wike Dares Tinubu to Sack Him, Declares Loyalty Amid Calls for FCT Minister’s Removal

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has emphatically rejected calls for his removal, stating that only President Bola Tinubu holds the constitutional authority to relieve him of his duties.

Wike made the remarks on Sunday during a “thank you” visit to Obio/Akpor, one of the most politically influential local government areas in Rivers State, where he addressed supporters, party leaders, and residents amid loud cheers and chants of solidarity.

Ejes Gist News reports that the visit, part of a series of political engagements in the state, quickly became a platform for the outspoken minister to respond to his critics.

Only the President Can Decide

Speaking directly to the gathering, Wike dismissed the calls for his sack as inconsequential. He argued that those clamouring for his removal lack the power to influence such a decision, noting that the authority to appoint or remove him rests solely with the president.

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“Don’t bother about people who say sack me because it doesn’t lie in their mouth,” Wike said. “If my appointor believes that I can’t offer anything again, he has the right. It’s not that you should tell him.”

The statement was met with applause from supporters, many of whom regard Wike as one of the most visible and assertive members of the Tinubu cabinet. Analysts say his remarks served both as a challenge to critics and a reaffirmation of loyalty to the president, while signalling he is unafraid of losing his position if deemed no longer useful.

Defending His Stewardship of Abuja

Wike also defended his record as FCT minister, insisting that tangible achievements in the nation’s capital underscore his effectiveness. He highlighted initiatives in infrastructure renewal, enforcement of the Abuja master plan, and the demolition of illegal structures as evidence of his commitment to good governance.

“But I’m very proud,” Wike declared. “Obio/Akpor people are proud, Rivers people are proud, and we can tell Nigerians that we have not disappointed them as far as the FCT is concerned.”

Since assuming office, Wike has led several high-profile projects, earning both praise and criticism. Supporters credit him with injecting urgency and visibility into FCT administration, while detractors accuse him of heavy-handedness and political partisanship.

Growing Calls for Removal

Calls for Wike’s dismissal have intensified in recent weeks, emanating from opposition figures, civil society voices, and some political actors uneasy with his influence within the Tinubu administration. Critics contend that his confrontational style and continued involvement in Rivers State politics may distract from his responsibilities in Abuja.

Wike, however, dismissed such criticisms, suggesting that scrutiny is a byproduct of relevance and performance. “If you are not doing well, nobody will talk about you,” he said during the gathering, echoing remarks he had made previously in Port Harcourt.

Political Implications

Observers note that Wike’s comments are significant for their timing. With the Tinubu administration navigating economic reforms, governance challenges, and internal party tensions, any discussion of cabinet stability commands national attention. By publicly daring the president to sack him if deemed “useless,” Wike projects confidence in his position within government.

Political analysts suggest that the statement may also be a calculated effort to reinforce his indispensability, both within the cabinet and in broader electoral considerations. As a former opposition governor serving in an APC-led government, Wike occupies a unique and sometimes controversial position in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Supporters and Critics React

For supporters in Rivers State, Wike’s speech reinforced his image as a fearless leader unwilling to be intimidated. Many see the calls for his removal as politically motivated, aimed at undermining his rising national profile.

Others caution that his public confrontations could deepen divisions, arguing that persistent sparring with critics may distract from governance and policy delivery.

Wike’s Clear Message

Despite the controversies, Wike maintained that he is not clinging to office at any cost. His message remains unequivocal: his fate as FCT minister rests entirely with President Tinubu, and he is prepared to step aside if asked.

By addressing criticism head-on, Wike has once again ensured that he remains at the centre of Nigeria’s political discourse, turning controversy into an opportunity to reaffirm his confidence, loyalty, and readiness to serve or leave at the president’s discretion.