PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has vehemently dismissed recent rumours regarding his health, while also laying out conditions for a genuine reconciliation with his political protégé-turned-rival, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Speaking at the platinum jubilee celebration of Honourable Ken Chikere in Port Harcourt on Friday, April 25, 2025, Wike addressed ongoing political tensions in Rivers State.
While he expressed openness to peace, he made it clear that any reconciliation must involve all key political actors and be based on sincerity, not superficial gestures.
“We are men of peace, not of trouble,” Wike declared, stressing that any peace agreement must be genuine.
“But it must be peace with sincerity, not peace as a decoy. Members of the State Assembly, the National Assembly, and the two major political parties must be involved.”
In what appeared to be a veiled critique of Fubara’s supporters and certain traditional leaders, Wike also criticised the silence of elder statesmen in the state, questioning what concrete actions they had taken to resolve the ongoing crisis.
His comments suggested that the lack of meaningful efforts from these figures had only contributed to the political impasse.
Additionally, Wike took aim at media blackmail tactics, asserting that such approaches would not lead to peace.
“No amount of embarrassment or blackmail can bring peace. What can bring peace is humility and a sincere commitment to the interests of the state,” he stated.
On the issue of his health, Wike categorically denied viral rumours that he had collapsed and been flown abroad for medical treatment.
He clarified that his overseas trip was solely for his son’s graduation, not for any health-related concerns.
“I am here. I am healthy—very, very well,” Wike declared. “Someone started spreading that I had collapsed. I was never sick. And even if I were, am I not a human being?”
In a lighthearted remark, he added, “Those who wish others to fall will be the ones to fall. And when you fall, it will be final.”
