'NBA IS NOW A POLITICAL PARTY,' SAYS WIKE

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has criticised former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, questioning his suitability for the position of Vice President over what he described as his past actions against the judiciary.

Wike also took aim at the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), accusing the association of abandoning its traditional role as an impartial defender of justice and constitutionalism in favour of partisan politics.

The Minister made the remarks on Wednesday during his monthly media parley in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he urged Nigerians to scrutinise the records of political figures seeking sensitive public offices.

Wike specifically criticised Amaechi, who is seeking the vice-presidential position, over the former governor’s alleged actions during his tenure as Rivers State governor.

According to Wike, “Rotimi Amaechi, who wants to be Vice President today, once shut down the courts in Rivers State and caused a pregnant woman to give birth in prison.”

The FCT Minister argued that the alleged record of undermining the judiciary should be considered when assessing political aspirants seeking high public office.

Wike Accuses NBA of Partisanship

Wike also criticised the Nigerian Bar Association, alleging that the professional body had become politically partisan.

“The Nigerian Bar Association has now taken sides politically. They are now a political party,” he declared.

2027: Wike Says He Won’t Support Atiku’s Victory

Speaking on the 2027 general elections, Wike said he would not remain passive and allow former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to win the election.

“You want me to fold my hand for Atiku Abubakar to come and win the election?” Wike asked.

Minister Denies Plans to Relocate to Rivers

Wike also dismissed reports that his frequent visits to Rivers State were an indication that he planned to relocate from Abuja.

He explained that his visits were aimed at maintaining contact with his constituents, engaging with the people and monitoring political developments ahead of the 2027 elections.

“It is not about relocating; it is about coming home to relate with the people and talk to them, and also do those things you know how to do very well, not to take chances,” he said.

“So, I’m not relocating. I don’t need to relocate, but I also have to be in touch with my people so that I don’t just sit in Abuja and then say that everything is going on there well.”

The Minister said he would not rely solely on assurances from political associates that all was well in Rivers State, stressing the need for him to personally monitor developments as political activities intensify.

“I don’t want to sit in Abuja and candidates are saying, ‘Oh, don’t bother, everything is going on well’. I have to come home and see that all those things are going on. ‘Have you done this? What about this?’” he said.

Wike maintained that the current political period was too important for him to remain detached from developments in Rivers State, insisting that his regular visits should not be interpreted as plans to relocate from the Federal Capital Territory.

He added that his parents were still alive and that he maintained strong personal and political ties to Rivers State, making regular visits to the state necessary.