Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has accused Rotimi Amaechi, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential running mate, of exploiting his mother’s death for political gain. Wike made the strong statement during a public address to supporters on Saturday, condemning what he described as an attempt to manipulate public sympathy through emotional appeals. The controversy follows Amaechi’s recent claim that President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies indirectly caused his mother’s death by making it difficult to afford her medical drugs.
Amaechi, who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2007, Governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015, and Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2023, had alleged that the current administration’s tough economic measures left him unable to purchase essential medications for his ailing mother. He used this narrative in a bid to highlight the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians under Tinubu’s leadership. However, Wike dismissed these claims as insincere and politically motivated.
In his response, Wike questioned Amaechi’s credibility, pointing out his decades-long tenure in high-ranking government positions. He emphasized that Amaechi had access to significant resources and influence during his time in office, yet failed to secure medical care for his mother. “Your mother was sick, and you are telling the whole world that because of Tinubu, you could not buy drugs for your mother,” Wike said. He added, “I would say you don’t like her life.”
Wike also highlighted the irony of Amaechi’s situation, noting that his wife is an industrialist with substantial financial means. He questioned why she could not assist in buying medication for her mother-in-law if the issue was truly about affordability. Furthermore, Wike pointed out that numerous prominent figures flew in private jets for the burial, suggesting that Amaechi had access to networks capable of providing immediate financial help. “You didn’t tell them, ‘My mother was sick. Give me money; let me buy drugs,’” Wike remarked.
The FCT Minister expressed deep disappointment that someone would use their mother’s passing as a platform for political propaganda. He challenged Amaechi’s character, asking whether his mother, wherever she may be, would find comfort in such a portrayal. “Nobody will pity you because they all know that you are telling lies,” Wike concluded.
This exchange underscores the growing tension between political figures ahead of the 2027 elections, with personal narratives increasingly being weaponized in public discourse. As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges, such controversies may shape voter perceptions and influence electoral dynamics in the coming years.
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