Port Harcourt, Rivers State — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized a growing political coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), calling its members “naysayers and unpatriotic.” He warned Nigerians not to be misled by the coalition, which he claims is only focused on removing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from power in the 2027 general elections.
Wike made these remarks on Saturday during the 35th Combined Convocation and 50th Anniversary celebration of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT). At the event, he was honored with a Doctorate Degree in Political Science (Honoris Causa) in recognition of his contributions to politics and education.
“The Real Goal is to Unseat Tinubu” — Wike Alleges
According to Wike, the ADC-led coalition is only interested in gaining power, not building the nation. He accused them of being part of Nigeria’s past problems, saying many of the coalition’s members once held top positions in government but have little or no positive achievements to show.
“If you interrogate their profiles, you will find that they have been in office for almost all their lives. Yet, they have nothing concrete to show,” he said.
Wike Defends Tinubu’s Leadership and Reforms
Wike used the opportunity to defend President Tinubu’s government, highlighting major policy reforms he said are already beginning to yield results. He specifically praised Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” citing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as a key initiative helping students from low-income families to access higher education.
“Soon, no willing child will be denied access to quality education because of economic hardship,” Wike said.
He also pointed to recent drops in fuel prices and other economic indicators as signs of progress.
“Our country is undoubtedly on the path of positive ascendency, and very soon, the impact will be visible even to the blind and obvious even to the cynically minded,” he added.
Misinformation and Political Games?
Wike claimed the ADC and its allies are spreading false information to weaken public trust in the Tinubu administration. He described this as a “coordinated misinformation campaign” designed to stir division and paint the government in a bad light ahead of the next elections.
“We must resist the purveyors of lies, hate and division who seek to destroy our country,” he urged the audience.
Giving Back to His Alma Mater
Wike, an alumnus of UNIPORT, used the occasion to speak about his personal contributions to the university. He reminded the audience of how, during his time as Minister of State for Education, he pushed for the creation of a Faculty of Law at the university.
“This university was established in 1975, but had no Law Faculty until I intervened,” Wike noted. “I also ensured the Law Faculty got a befitting building, and today it stands tall on this campus.”
He encouraged other graduates to give back to the university, saying it’s a way of showing gratitude to the institution that shaped their lives.
