The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, saying he is not fit to become Nigeria’s Vice President because of his alleged past actions against the judiciary.
Wike also accused the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) of abandoning its traditional role of defending justice and the rule of law in favour of political interests.
The minister spoke on Wednesday during his monthly media briefing in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Wike asked Nigerians to look closely at the records of politicians who present themselves as defenders of democracy and the rule of law before giving them important public offices.
He said, “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.”
Wike said such an alleged record should be considered when judging politicians seeking senior executive positions.
He also criticised the NBA over what he described as its involvement in politics.
“The Nigerian Bar Association has now taken sides politically. They are now a political party,” he said.
Concerning the 2027 presidential election, Wike said he would not sit back and allow former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), to win.
Wike also denied reports that he planned to move from Abuja back to Rivers State.
He explained that his frequent trips to the state were meant to keep in touch with his people and follow 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.
“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,” he said.
The minister said he could not depend only on political associates to tell him that everything was going well in Rivers State.