During the flag-off ceremony for the Arterial Road N1 project in Wuye, Abuja, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), praised President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to the rule of law. Wike’s remarks were a direct response to a recent X post by activist Omoyele Sowore, who labeled Tinubu a “criminal” and criticized the administration’s anti-corruption stance during the president’s visit to Brazil. Wike used the platform to highlight what he described as Tinubu’s restraint in the face of such online insults, emphasizing the president’s adherence to legal principles.Wike contrasted Nigeria’s political environment with that of the United States, noting that even critics of former U.S. President Donald Trump refrain from branding him a “criminal” without consequences.
He stated, “In Nigeria, we play politics with everything. This is a country where somebody on social media will say Mr. President is a criminal; nothing will happen… You are lucky you have a President who believes in the rule of law.” He further cautioned, “Continue to be lucky,” suggesting that such tolerance might not persist under a less principled leader. This remark sparked varied reactions, with some praising Wike’s defense of Tinubu, while others saw it as a subtle warning against free speech.
As a staunch Tinubu ally, despite his past affiliation with the opposition PDP, Wike has consistently defended the president, often linking his leadership to progress in governance and infrastructure. The road project launch served as a backdrop to reinforce this narrative, showcasing Tinubu’s “business-like” approach to administration.Wike’s statement reflects ongoing tensions between the Nigerian government and online activists, with the minister positioning Tinubu’s administration as uniquely tolerant. By invoking the rule of law, he aimed to underscore the president’s restraint amid criticism, while his warning hinted at the fragility of such leniency. The remarks, made during a public infrastructure event, highlight the intersection of politics, free speech, and governance in Nigeria’s evolving digital landscape.
