Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, accusing him of being a “transactional politician” whose loyalties change based on personal ambition.
The criticism came in a statement issued on Thursday by Governor Mohammed’s Special Adviser for Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, in response to Wike’s comments regarding the Governor’s opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills. Gidado dismissed Wike’s remarks as unfounded and hypocritical, accusing the former Rivers State Governor of political inconsistency and opportunism.
Gidado pointed out that Wike, who had previously portrayed himself as a committed member of the People’s Democratic Party, has now aligned himself with the All Progressives Congress government. This shift, according to Gidado, calls into question Wike’s credibility and integrity.
The statement further accused Wike of undermining his former party for personal gain. Gidado stressed that Wike’s political rise was made possible by the PDP, and now, he is attempting to discredit the same party that helped him succeed.
Gidado also responded to Wike’s claim that he and Governor Mohammed are not friends, dismissing it as irrelevant. He emphasized that governance is not based on personal friendships but on the ability to deliver results. Gidado added that should Wike ever decide to embrace true leadership, Governor Mohammed would welcome him, but for now, Wike’s personal relations have little bearing on the progress of Bauchi State or the strength of Nigeria’s democracy.
“While Wike accuses others of insincerity, he has seamlessly transitioned from being a self-proclaimed PDP stalwart to an ardent supporter of the APC government.
“He now advocates the re-election of the same APC administration in 2027, all while continuing to claim membership in the PDP. This chameleonic behaviour raises serious questions about Wike’s credibility and moral compass,” the statement read.
“Yet, he now gleefully undermines the very foundation that nurtured him.
“It is disheartening that a man who owes so much to a party that stood by him in his political journey has chosen to be a willing tool in its denigration,” Gidado said.
” Should Wike ever have a moment of genuine self-reflection and wish to align himself with true leadership, Senator Bala Mohammed would welcome him with open arms.
“Until then, Wike’s friendship or lack thereof is inconsequential to the progress of Bauchi State and the strengthening of Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement added.