The long-standing political rivalry between former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has intensified with a fresh salvo from Akindele Ayekooto a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) June 4, 2025.
Aoording to report on Wednesday June 4, Ayekooto accused Wike of systematically undermining Amaechi’s political career.
Alleging that the FCT Minister was responsible for pushing Amaechi out of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC, effectively turning him into what he described as a “hungry man.”
The latest round of the feud was ignited by Amaechi’s remarks during his 60th birthday celebration in Abuja.
He lamented that Nigerians, including himself, are “hungry” under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Amaechi’s statement was widely interpreted as a critique of the government’s handling of the economy and social welfare.
In a sharp rebuttal, Wike dismissed Amaechi’s claim, asserting that he was not hungry for food but for political power, emphasizing his material wealth.
Wike also rejected Amaechi’s assertion that he was once his political superior, further escalating the public spat.
Ayekooto’s Scathing Defense of Wike
Joining the fray, Ayekooto took to social media to defend Wike and challenge Amaechi’s narrative.
On his Facebook page, Ayekooto questioned Amaechi’s characterization of Wike as a “child,” highlighting Wike’s political dominance over Amaechi. He wrote:
“Amaechi, how can you call the man who pursued you from PDP, pursued you from APC, and pursued you from Rivers politics a child?
He defeated you as a sitting governor, defeated you as a sitting minister, and turned you into a hungry man.”
Ayekooto’s statement underscores the deep political rivalry between the two men, portraying Wike as the victor who outmaneuvered Amaechi at multiple levels of governance.
Amaechi’s Reflections on His Relationship with Wike
Amaechi, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation, had previously explained why he appointed Wike as his Chief of Staff during his tenure as governor.
He revealed that the appointment was a strategic move to keep Wike under close supervision.
“I wanted him (Wike) as Chief of Staff so I could supervise him,” Amaechi said.
He also disclosed that Wike had sought the position of Commissioner for Finance, which Amaechi declined to grant.
These remarks shed light on the complex and often tense relationship between the two political heavyweights, marked by mutual suspicion and competition.
Broader Political Implications
The rivalry between Amaechi and Wike reflects broader political dynamics in Rivers State and Nigerian national politics.
Both men command significant influence and have loyal followings, but their feud has often manifested in public confrontations and personal attacks.
Ayekooto’s assertion that Wike “turned Amaechi into a hungry man” is a metaphorical indictment of Amaechi’s diminished political relevance following his fallout with Wike and subsequent marginalization within major political parties.
Public and Political Reactions
Public reactions to this latest exchange have been mixed.
Supporters of Wike praise Ayekooto’s defense as a validation of Wike’s political acumen and dominance.
Conversely, Amaechi’s supporters view his comments as a candid reflection of the challenges faced by a seasoned politician navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Political analysts suggest this feud will continue to influence political alignments and power struggles in Rivers State, shaping upcoming elections and party dynamics.
A Rivalry That Defines Rivers Politics
The recent verbal exchanges between Rotimi Amaechi, Nyesom Wike, and Akindele Ayekooto highlight the intensely personal nature of political rivalries in Nigeria.
By accusing Amaechi of being “turned into a hungry man” and pushed out of major political parties, Ayekooto reinforces the narrative of Wike’s ascendancy in Rivers State politics.
Amaechi’s reflections on his past relationship with Wike reveal a complicated history of political maneuvering and strategic positioning.
As the rivalry unfolds, it remains a key lens through which to understand the interplay of power, loyalty, and ambition in Nigerian politics.
With elections on the horizon, the outcome of this rivalry could have significant implications for the political future of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
Observers and supporters alike will be watching closely as this political drama continues to unfold.
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