Nigerians Lucky to Have President Tinubu, Says Wike Minister of the Federal Capital

Nigerians Lucky to Have President Tinubu, Says Wike
Minister of the Federal Capital

Territory, Nyesom Wike, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his tolerance of criticisms, stating that Nigerians are fortunate to have a leader who believes in the rule of law. Wike made this remark while flagging off the Arterial Road N1 in Wuye, Abuja, referencing a recent social media post by activist Omoyele Sowore, who described Tinubu as a “criminal” .

Wike’s comments were in response to Sowore’s tweet criticizing Tinubu’s claim of eradicating corruption in Nigeria during a visit to Brazil. Sowore’s tweet sparked controversy, with Wike defending Tinubu’s tolerance, saying, “This is a country where somebody on social media will say Mr. President is a criminal; nothing will happen.” Wike emphasized that Nigerians are lucky to have a president who upholds the rule of law, unlike other leaders who might take offense at such criticism and take drastic measures .

Sowore fired back at Wike, accusing him of gross misconduct during his political career and suggesting that he should face prosecution at the International Criminal Court (ICC). Sowore also referenced Wike’s alleged involvement in the massacre of Igbos at Obigbo and land grabbing in Abuja, calling him a “murderer” and “criminal” .Wike’s statement has sparked debate about the state of free speech in Nigeria, with some interpreting it as a warning that freedom of expression is a privilege that can be withdrawn at will. Others see it as a reflection of the country’s democratic progress, where citizens can criticize their leaders without fear of reprisal .

The exchange between Wike and Sowore highlights the complexities of politics and free speech in Nigeria. While Wike’s comments may be seen as a defense of Tinubu’s tolerance, they also raise questions about the limits of criticism and the role of leaders in shaping public discourse. As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen how this dynamic will play out in the country’s democratic landscape.