Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has rebuffed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, asserting that he will not engage in a verbal tussle with “children.” Amaechi’s remarks came during an ARISE TV interview on Tuesday, following Wike’s criticism of his recent comments regarding hunger in Nigeria.
“God, Peter Odili, the judiciary, and the people of Rivers State elevated me to the governorship. Ask him how he achieved his position. I make this statement because I refuse to engage with children,” Amaechi stated.
This exchange originates from Amaechi’s earlier comments at his 60th birthday celebration, where he expressed alarm over the nation’s economic difficulties.
“Nigerian elites are not the root of our issues. The real problem lies with the populace. We lack true capitalists who can invest in production. Do we produce anything here? I look at Nigeria and ponder, what are we doing? Do we genuinely aspire to be a united nation? The crucial question is how we can transform our country.
“We are all experiencing hunger. If you’re not hungry, I certainly am. For us in the opposition, we can remove the man in power if that’s what is needed,” Amaechi remarked.
In a media discussion on Monday, Wike dismissed Amaechi’s comments as “politically motivated” and accused him of downplaying the struggles faced by Nigerians.
“Amaechi didn’t mention hunger when he was the super minister of transportation. Only now, two years after leaving office and as part of the coalition, does he talk about it. He’s merely hungry for power,” Wike stated.
“How can you belittle Nigerians and their suffering? You’re insulting them. The only reason for his current position is that he is out of power—this is his hunger.”
Responding to Wike’s claims, Amaechi clarified that his ascension to the governorship was due to divine support, judicial victories, and the backing of Rivers State residents.
He also reflected on his choice to appoint Wike as chief of staff rather than finance commissioner, emphasising the need for direct oversight.
“Mohammed Adoke travelled from Abuja to Port Harcourt, requesting the finance position. I refused, insisting he work under me as chief of staff for proper supervision. I had the authority to deny him,” Amaechi explained.
He continued, “He appointed himself chief of staff, governor, minister, and local government chairman.”
Amaechi concluded with a critique of Wike’s political behaviour, stating, “There is a diminishing respect for family names; people say and do anything.”
