We Need To Pity Wike He Is Surviving Politically on Tinubu’s Lifeline’

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Former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Laolu Akande, has urged Nigerians to “pity” Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, due to the precarious state of his current political standing.

In a recent video discussion on his YouTube channel titled “Why Wike is Troubled”, Akande painted a picture of a politician wrestling with multiple internal and external pressures while striving to maintain dominance in Rivers State. According to him, Wike’s influence today is significantly dependent on the support of President Bola Tinubu. Without this backing, Akande warns, the Minister’s political reach would likely decline.

Akande pointed out the symbolic shift in Wike’s rhetoric during his political tours. “When Wike, the immediate past governor of Rivers State, speaks of leaving behind both PDP and APC in favor of only the Renewed Hope Family, it signals his growing awareness of personal limitations,” he observed.

Highlighting ongoing tensions in Rivers State, Akande referenced remarks from Governor Sim Fubara, noting: “‘If you follow Tinubu, don’t do corner corner,’ Fubara says. This illustrates the friction between the two leaders and the political pressure Wike faces even within his home state.”

The former presidential adviser emphasized that Wike’s preferred successor has inadvertently intensified political challenges for him. “His choice for succession is now presenting a struggle that tests his influence in Rivers,” Akande explained. He added that this scenario serves as a cautionary tale for politicians: democracy requires collaboration, and sidelining stakeholders can erode long-term authority.

Despite the pressures, Wike is not without means. Akande stressed that the Minister retains resources and strategies to sustain his political relevance. “He still has significant funds and tactics to navigate the complex structures of Rivers politics, but the question remains whether he is overextending himself. Not every politician can measure up to a Jagaban,” he said, alluding to Tinubu’s overarching influence.

The FCT Minister is further entangled in delicate dynamics involving figures who once bolstered his career, including former Governor Peter Odili, former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dr. Patience Jonathan, as well as former Minister Chibuike Amaechi. According to Akande, Wike has not been able to fully neutralize the influence of these key figures, adding to the political complexity he faces.

At the core of his survival, Akande noted, is Tinubu’s support. “Should Tinubu decide to remove him from his ministerial role, Wike’s position would be considerably weakened. Most of his other political alliances have either faded or become irrelevant,” he explained.

Analysis: A Politician Under Pressure

Akande’s commentary highlights the precarious nature of Wike’s current political journey. While still influential, he operates in a highly competitive environment with multiple opponents and limited allies. Analysts suggest that such dependency on a single patron—no matter how powerful—exposes even seasoned politicians to vulnerability.

Furthermore, the unfolding political puzzle in Rivers State demonstrates a broader lesson for Nigerian political actors: consolidating power requires both strategic alliances and grassroots support. Ignoring either dimension can result in political setbacks, regardless of personal resources or prior achievements.

In conclusion, Akande urged Nigerians to recognize the unusually challenging period for Wike. “Even the most formidable political figures would struggle to balance multiple adversaries simultaneously. In this context, we must pity Wike,” he said.