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By our reporter
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has launched a blistering verbal attack on former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of wasting his time in office and now attempting to regain political relevance through public outbursts.
Speaking during a political engagement in Abuja, Wike challenged Amaechi to present his record of achievements while in power, asserting that Nigerians deserve to see what he truly delivered during his time in government.
Wike stated that leadership is a divine opportunity to improve people’s lives, not a platform for personal ambition or entitlement. He accused Amaechi of squandering the privilege he once had and now trying to stir public emotions to facilitate a return to power.
“This is operation ‘show your scorecard.’ God gave you the opportunity to serve and make Nigerians happy, but you failed. You had the chance, and you blew it,” Wike said. “Now that you’re no longer in office, you’re angry. You claim Nigerians are angry—no, you’re the one who’s angry because the power is no longer in your hands.”
Wike, who served as Governor of Rivers State after Amaechi and now holds a key portfolio under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, made it clear that any attempt by the former minister to re-enter the corridors of power would be firmly resisted.
“You want to come back to office, but let me be honest with you—you will not return. That door is closed,” he said firmly.
The renewed verbal exchange between the two prominent figures from Rivers State reflects a longstanding rivalry that has shaped regional and national politics over the past decade. Both men, once allies in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), became bitter political opponents following Amaechi’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013.
Wike’s remarks also serve as a broader message to former officeholders seeking political comebacks without tangible records of performance. He emphasized that leadership should not be reduced to empty slogans or recycled ambitions, but measured by the positive impact made on the lives of citizens.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the tension between Wike and Amaechi is expected to escalate, with both figures likely to play significant roles in shaping the political direction of the South-South region and beyond.
