Pressure is mounting on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as the ongoing #WikeAssetProbe continues to stir political tension within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and across Rivers State....Click to Read More >>➤

The controversy, which has gained widespread attention on social media, has intensified calls for accountability and heightened divisions among power blocs loyal to both Wike and his estranged political ally, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike Under Fire as Asset Probe Intensifies

The situation escalated after petitions surfaced accusing the FCT Minister of alleged abuse of office and questionable allocation of high-value lands in Abuja. The allegations, reportedly involving multi-billion-naira transactions, have triggered public outcry and renewed debate over corruption and favoritism within the current administration.

Civil society organizations and opposition figures have urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the presidency to launch a transparent investigation into the allegations. The social media campaign tagged #WikeAssetProbe has since gone viral, amplifying pressure on the government to act decisively.

Wike’s supporters, however, have dismissed the accusations as politically driven. According to his aides, the minister’s actions as FCT boss strictly followed due process and were consistent with land management policies approved by the Federal Executive Council.

Despite these denials, insiders in the presidency reportedly told journalists that the seriousness of the allegations — combined with mounting political unrest in Rivers State — has forced Tinubu’s advisers to reassess Wike’s continued presence in the cabinet.

APC Elders Advise Tinubu to Reconsider Alliance

Prominent APC elders are said to be urging President Tinubu to cut ties with Wike and rebuild trust with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who has gained significant public sympathy following his political clash with his former mentor.

Reports indicate that some senior members of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and key figures within the ruling party met with the president recently to discuss the implications of the ongoing controversy. Their advice, sources claim, was straightforward — distance the presidency from Wike to safeguard the party’s image ahead of the 2027 general elections.

One APC elder, speaking anonymously, reportedly told journalists:

“The party cannot afford unnecessary scandals or distractions going into 2027. Governor Fubara has the people’s trust, and aligning with him may strengthen the APC’s chances in the South-South.”

The growing divide between Wike and Fubara has become one of the most significant internal political crises since the start of the Tinubu administration, with many analysts viewing it as a test of the president’s political judgment and crisis management skills.

Tinubu’s Balancing Act and Political Calculations

According to political insiders, President Tinubu is currently weighing his options carefully. While some within his circle argue that dismissing Wike would send a strong message about accountability and integrity, others warn that such a move could fracture the delicate political alliances that helped the APC secure power in the South-South region.

Sources claim the president has quietly ordered a confidential review of Wike’s activities as FCT Minister — including a performance evaluation and a review of recent land allocations. The findings of that review, according to insiders, may guide Tinubu’s next steps.

For now, the president has remained publicly silent, though those close to Aso Rock say discussions about Wike’s future in the cabinet have become more frequent and urgent.

Public Reaction and Broader Implications

The #WikeAssetProbe has not only divided the ruling party but also reignited public discourse on transparency and justice in governance. Many Nigerians see the situation as a defining moment for President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which pledged to restore public trust and demonstrate zero tolerance for corruption.

Commentators note that how the president handles the Wike controversy could determine his administration’s credibility and political momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.

If Tinubu decides to retain Wike, critics argue it may signal leniency toward political allies accused of misconduct. On the other hand, removing him could bolster the government’s anti-corruption credentials but risk destabilizing existing coalitions in the South-South.

Political analysts agree that whichever path Tinubu chooses will have far-reaching consequences for both his administration and the ruling APC. The next few weeks, they say, could reveal whether the president prioritizes loyalty or integrity as he navigates one of the most delicate political storms of his tenure. ...Click to Read More >>➤