You are Hungry for Power, Not Food, Wike Slams Amaechi

In a scathing response to former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi’s recent comments, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has accused Amaechi of being “hungry for power, not food.”

Wike’s remarks came during a media chat in Abuja, where he dismissed Amaechi’s claims of hunger as “political lies” and “disrespectful to Nigerians.”

Amaechi, who celebrated his 60th birthday on Friday, had stated that Nigeria’s problems stem from its “failing followership” and not from its elite class. He also expressed his disillusionment with the country’s direction, saying “we’re all hungry, all of us are. If you’re not hungry, I am.” However, Wike was quick to interpret Amaechi’s comments as a veiled attempt to seek power.

“He chose his 60th birthday to tell lies,” Wike said. “He told Nigerians he’s hungry. No, he’s just hungry for power.” Wike questioned Amaechi’s legacy and record in public office, highlighting his long career in government, which spans from Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly to two-term Governor and later a cabinet Minister.

Wike pointed out that Amaechi never complained about hunger throughout his time in office, which included eight years as speaker, eight years as governor, and another eight years as a minister.

“All that time, no talk about hunger. Two years out of power, now you say you’re hungry. You’re only hungry for power,” Wike said.

The FCT Minister also accused Amaechi of using the issue of hunger and poverty to insult Nigerians.

“How do you insult Nigerians like that? You’re saying you’re hungry, but you’re just desperate to remain in power. You can’t stay out of it,” Wike said.

Furthermore, Wike questioned Amaechi’s political strength, referencing his failure to secure a successor during his time as Rivers State governor.

“He was governor till 2015. He couldn’t produce a successor. He couldn’t even give his candidate normal glory,” Wike said.

The war of words between Wike and Amaechi is the latest in a series of public exchanges between the two politicians. Amaechi’s comments on Friday were seen as a critique of the current administration, and Wike’s response is being interpreted as a defense of the government.