By: Damba
Politics, often referred to as a game of strategy, is played at its finest by Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His political maneuvering, marked by subtlety and foresight, has allowed him to neutralize formidable opponents without engaging in outright confrontation. A prime example of this is the manner in which he has effectively managed the political aspirations of Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Wike, once a towering figure in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian politics, seemed poised to make a leap to even greater heights. His influence, particularly in Rivers State, made him a powerful player with eyes set on a future that could potentially include the presidency. However, Tinubu, a seasoned political strategist, recognized the potential danger Wike posed and devised a plan to keep his ambitions in check.
The Appointment: A Political Trap
Tinubu’s appointment of Wike as the FCT Minister seemed, on the surface, to be a reward for Wike’s crucial support during the 2023 elections. However, this move had far deeper implications. The role of FCT Minister is one of immense responsibility, but it also places the holder at the center of public ire, particularly when it comes to policies that affect the entire nation.
The FCT Minister is often forced to make unpopular decisions—such as the demolition of illegal structures or the enforcement of regulations that anger citizens. By assigning Wike to this controversial position, Tinubu ensured that the former governor would bear the brunt of public dissatisfaction, particularly from his home state of Rivers.
This move served to diminish Wike’s political capital. It placed him in a role that would inevitably lead to criticism, making it more difficult for him to retain the widespread support he once enjoyed. With Wike taking on the “dirty job” of unpopular decisions, Tinubu effectively painted him into a corner, neutralizing his potential to launch any future political challenges.
The “Dirty Job” Strategy: A Common Political Tactic
This strategy of assigning a political rival a highly unpopular role to diminish their support is not new to Nigerian politics. Former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode faced a similar fate when he fell out of favor with Tinubu. As a rising political star, Ambode was isolated, stripped of support, and left with few allies to defend him. Now, Wike finds himself in the same precarious position.
Wike’s tenure as FCT Minister has already seen him make several controversial decisions, including demolitions of structures and clashes with political opponents. These actions have not only made him enemies in the FCT but have also weakened his hold on his home state of Rivers. As his decisions continue to make waves, his political influence erodes, leaving him in a weakened position to pursue higher office.
The Decline of Wike’s Influence in Rivers
Before becoming the FCT Minister, Wike commanded considerable influence in Rivers State. However, his ongoing political clashes with current Governor Siminalayi Fubara have created a rift within the state. This division has left Wike without the strong political base he once relied upon. The loss of his home-state support makes it increasingly difficult for him to mount a credible challenge for any future position, whether that be as governor, senator, or even president.
With no solid ground to stand on, Wike’s only recourse is to remain loyal to Tinubu. Any attempt to challenge the status quo would likely be met with swift political isolation. He has found himself trapped by his own ambition—relying on Tinubu for political survival, but with no real ability to challenge the president’s dominance. This loyalty, however, comes at a steep price: Wike will never wield the kind of political power he once envisioned for himself.
The Final Play: A Political Career in Limbo
In Nigerian politics, loyalty is often secured through political patronage. Wike, once a fiery and ambitious politician, now finds himself in a precarious position. The role he once saw as a stepping stone to greater ambitions has now become a cage that limits his political future. By the end of his tenure as FCT Minister, Wike may find himself too unpopular to contest any major position, and Tinubu will have successfully neutralized yet another potential challenger.
Ultimately, the game of politics is not won by who makes the loudest noise or who engages in public quarrels but by who plays the smartest. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with his calculated approach, continues to prove why he remains Nigeria’s most formidable political chess master. Wike, despite his past influence and strong-willed nature, has become just another pawn in the larger political scheme, his once-promising future now silenced by the hands of a master strategist.
As Nigerian politics continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: power in this game is never absolute, and survival often depends on one’s ability to navigate the shifting tides of loyalty, ambition, and political strategy.
