The political rivalry between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate Rotimi Amaechi has escalated significantly. During a recent address to the Uzugbani Ekpeye National Executive Council in Ahoada East Local Government Area, Wike challenged his former principal and predecessor regarding his performance and financial stewardship during his two decades in high public office.

Scrutiny of Past Projects

Wike questioned the accountability and outcomes of several major infrastructure and public health initiatives launched during Amaechi's tenure as governor of Rivers State. He specifically demanded transparency regarding:

• The uncompleted $39.2 million Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte Specialist Hospital project, noting that a judicial commission of inquiry was previously established to investigate funds paid to the contractor.

• The state monorail transport project, which stalled after initial implementation phases.

• An anti-malaria fumigation program, which Wike dismissed as an ineffective expenditure of approximately $10 million involving foreign consultants.

Wike argued that leaders seeking higher office must be evaluated based on tangible infrastructure, community development, and empowerment programs left behind. He asserted that across Amaechi's combined service as Speaker of the State House of Assembly, governor, and federal minister, residents of the Ekpeye region saw little tangible benefit or lasting legacy projects.

Controversy Over Personal Remarks and Politics

The FCT minister also strongly condemned Amaechi for linking the death of his mother, Mary Amaechi, to President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies. Amaechi had publicly stated that rising medication costs under the current administration prevented him from affording necessary drugs for his mother prior to her passing in July 2026.

Wike rejected this narrative, pointing out Amaechi's extensive background in high-ranking government positions spanning nearly 24 years. He questioned how an individual who held such influential roles—alongside familial financial standing and numerous wealthy associates—could claim an inability to secure medical care. Furthermore, Wike criticized the integration of family grief and the deceased into political rhetoric, particularly concerning statements that tied the happiness of the departed to the electoral success of the ADC in upcoming polls.

Urging citizens to focus on verifiable achievements rather than political rhetoric, Wike called on the electorate to demand accountability from political figures regarding their stewardship, empowerment of successors, and genuine contributions to regional development.