The War of Words: Nyesom Wike’s Most Controversial Political Fights

In Nigerian politics, Nyesom Wike stands as one of the most vocal, combative, and fearless figures. Over the years, Wike, the former governor of Rivers State and now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has made headlines for his unfiltered opinions and direct confrontations with political figures. His political journey has been marked by intense battles, sharp rhetoric, and controversial exchanges. Whether engaging in verbal duels with fellow politicians, clashing with opposition parties, or challenging his own party members, Wike has proven to be a man who never shies away from a political fight.

This article explores Nyesom Wike’s most controversial political fights, shedding light on the key confrontations that have shaped his public persona and political career.

1. The Battle with Rotimi Amaechi – A Political Rivalry for the Ages

Perhaps Wike’s most defining political fight has been with his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi. Their feud, which dates back to Wike’s tenure as Chief of Staff to Amaechi when he was governor, intensified after Amaechi defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013.

• Wike accused Amaechi of marginalizing Rivers State’s interests.
• Amaechi, on the other hand, alleged that Wike was desperate for power.
• The battle reached a peak during the 2015 Rivers State gubernatorial election, where Wike emerged victorious amidst allegations of election rigging and violence.
• Their rivalry continued throughout Wike’s tenure as governor, with both men exchanging heated words over various state matters.

This political warfare remains one of the most iconic in Nigeria’s recent history.

2. The PDP Presidential Primaries Showdown (2022) – Clash with Atiku Abubakar

The 2022 PDP presidential primaries saw Wike emerge as a major contender for the party’s ticket. However, he lost to Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president, in a controversial outcome that left Wike furious.

• Wike accused the PDP leadership of betrayal and dishonesty.
• He alleged that Atiku and his allies manipulated the primaries to favor the North.
• Wike’s demands for the PDP national chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, to resign as part of the power balance led to major divisions in the party.
• His G5 Governors alliance, a faction of PDP governors who opposed Atiku’s candidacy, further deepened party tensions.

His reaction to the primaries changed the political dynamics of the 2023 elections, as Wike’s alleged indirect support for APC’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu ultimately contributed to PDP’s loss.

3. The War Against the Federal Government – Struggles Over VAT Collection

During his tenure as governor, Wike fiercely battled the Federal Government of Nigeria over the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT).

• Wike insisted that Rivers State should collect its own VAT, arguing that the current system unfairly enriched the Federal Government.
• He initiated legal action, securing a favorable court ruling that empowered states to collect VAT.
• This move sparked nationwide debates and set a precedent for other states, including Lagos, to challenge federal taxation policies.

The case eventually escalated to the Supreme Court, but Wike’s stance marked a significant challenge to Nigeria’s fiscal policies.

4. Face-Off with Peter Obi – The 2023 Elections Drama

During the 2023 elections, Wike had several confrontations with Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate.

• Many Obi supporters accused Wike of undermining Obi’s chances in Rivers State.
• Wike, however, denied the allegations, claiming he was only focused on delivering his preferred candidates.
• The tension between Wike and Obi supporters became a hot topic on social media, with many believing that Wike played a role in Obi’s loss.

This episode reinforced Wike’s reputation as a political strategist who plays hardball.

5. The Feud with Former PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus

Wike played a major role in the removal of Uche Secondus as the PDP National Chairman in 2021.

• He accused Secondus of weak leadership and failure to prepare the PDP for national elections.
• Secondus, in response, claimed that Wike was running the party like his personal property.
• This infighting led to Secondus’ removal, further deepening internal crises in the PDP.

Wike’s political maneuvering during this period showcased his ability to control the party’s structure in Rivers State and beyond.

6. Clash with FCT Officials as Minister – The Abuja Demolition Controversy

Since becoming the Minister of the FCT, Wike has stirred controversy with his aggressive demolition of illegal structures.

• He justified his actions as part of his plan to restore Abuja’s master plan.
• Critics accused him of favoring certain groups and being too harsh.
• Some saw it as a continuation of his authoritarian leadership style.

Despite the backlash, Wike remains firm in his stance, stating that no illegal structure will be spared.

7. The Indirect War with PDP After Accepting Tinubu’s Ministerial Offer

After the 2023 elections, Wike’s decision to accept a ministerial appointment from President Bola Tinubu, an APC leader, sparked major controversy.

• Many PDP members saw it as a betrayal.
• Wike defended himself, saying he was serving the nation, not a party.
• His actions led to speculations that he might officially defect to the APC.

This move further fractured PDP’s unity and positioned Wike as a political wildcard.

Nyesom Wike’s political journey has been nothing short of dramatic. His fearless approach, outspoken nature, and relentless battles with political heavyweights have made him one of Nigeria’s most formidable politicians. Whether fighting for power, engaging in verbal exchanges, or shaking up the political landscape, Wike has remained a major force in Nigeria’s democracy.

As his career continues, one thing is certain: Wike will never back down from a political fight. Whether loved or criticized, his influence in Nigerian politics is undeniable, and his next battle is always just around the corner.