Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has rebuffed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, asserting that he will not engage in disputes with “children.” Amaechi made his comments during an interview on ARISE TV on Tuesday, in response to Wike’s critique of his remarks about hunger in Nigeria.
“God, Peter Odili, the judiciary, and the people of Rivers State made me governor. Ask him how he secured his position. I say this because I refuse to partake in issues with children,” Amaechi said.
The exchange follows Amaechi’s earlier comments at his 60th birthday celebration, where he raised concerns about the economic challenges in Nigeria.
“Nigerian elites are not the issue; the real problem lies with the populace. We lack true capitalists capable of investing in production. What are we doing in Nigeria? Do we truly seek to be a united nation? The key question is how we can effect change.
“We are all hungry. If you’re not, I am. For us in the opposition, we can remove the current leader if required,” Amaechi asserted.
In a media conversation on Monday, Wike dismissed Amaechi’s statements as “politically motivated” and accused him of trivialising Nigerians’ hardships.
“He didn’t mention hunger when he was the super minister of transportation. Now, two years post-office and part of the coalition, he speaks about it. He’s merely hungry for power,” Wike remarked.
“How can you insult Nigerians and belittle their suffering? You are insulting them. His current status is simply because he is out of power—this is his hunger.”
Amaechi countered Wike’s claims, stating his rise to governorship was due to divine support and the backing of Rivers State citizens.
He also explained his decision to appoint Wike as chief of staff instead of finance commissioner, citing the need for close supervision.
“Mohammed Adoke came from Abuja to request the finance position, and I declined, insisting he work directly under me. I wanted him as chief of staff for oversight. I had the power to say no,” Amaechi noted.
He added, “Wike made himself chief of staff, governor, minister, and local government chairman.”
Amaechi concluded by criticising Wike’s political conduct, saying, “Respect for family names has diminished; people now say and do anything.”