Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has strongly accused his predecessor and political opponent, Rotimi Amaechi, of allowing his wife to misappropriate N4 billion intended for the training of women in the Niger Delta. During an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’, Wike addressed several political matters, including Amaechi’s recent claims of seniority and demands for respect based on age and experience.
Wike rebuffed these assertions, stating, “Respect should stem from integrity and honour, not merely age. His prior governorship doesn’t grant him superiority.” He highlighted that he had significant political experience, having been an elected local government chairman before even encountering Amaechi.
Turning his focus to Amaechi’s wife, Wike questioned her self-proclaimed title of “industrialist,” suggesting her financial dealings would be scrutinised in an upcoming forensic audit report of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He remarked, “When exactly did she earn that title? Simply selling does not qualify one as an industrialist.”
Wike further admonished Amaechi for politicising his wife’s business status, expressing disbelief at his rival’s lack of respect for her. “If you truly love your wife, you wouldn’t discuss her like this,” he asserted. Wike urged President Bola Tinubu to publish the awaited NDDC audit, claiming it would reveal details of Amaechi’s wife’s alleged embezzlement.