The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sparked reactions following his public criticism of Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, over a viral video showing Obi serving food at a social gathering.
Wike made the comments during the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service on Tuesday in Benin City, where he did not hold back in mocking Obi's actions. According to the former Rivers State governor, Obi’s gesture was nothing more than political performance aimed at deceiving Nigerians into believing he is a man of the people.
Describing the food-serving act as a “show of shame,” Wike questioned the intent behind the move, asking: “This is not where a presidential candidate will begin to serve food. No! No!! How long will he be serving the food? As a president, will he be carrying food and serving? And then Nigerians are laughing. Who told you that is humility?”
Wike went on to criticize both the media and the general public for giving attention and credibility to what he termed misleading optics. He argued that such acts, while portrayed as humility, do not reflect the realities or responsibilities of true leadership.
“And you people give audience to that kind of thing. Someone will be telling you that as a presidential candidate, he’ll be flying commercial, and you’ll believe that’s the truth. Which security personnel will allow that?” he said, dismissing claims that public simplicity automatically equates to good governance.
Wike also accused Obi of attempting to manipulate public perception through staged gestures. He questioned why such acts were not visible during Obi’s time as governor of Anambra State, implying the behavior is newly adopted for political advantage ahead of future elections.
“When he was governor, was he serving food? Now that election is coming, he has started again,” Wike remarked, insinuating that Obi’s current actions are driven by electoral ambitions rather than genuine humility or public service.
In addition to his critique, Wike expressed full support for Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who recently cautioned Peter Obi about visiting the state without official security clearance. Okpebholo had warned that Obi’s surprise appearances could pose significant safety risks.
Governor Okpebholo, while speaking at a recent political rally, recalled Obi’s unannounced visit to Edo State during which he donated ₦15 million to a nursing school. According to him, the visit allegedly led to unrest and resulted in the unfortunate deaths of four individuals.
“If Peter Obi wants to come here, he should seek proper security clearance. We cannot guarantee his safety otherwise. If anything happens to him, he’ll have himself to blame,” Okpebholo warned, underlining the need for coordination with local authorities.
Backing the governor’s stance, Wike added: “All I am saying is, if you are coming, tell me because I am here to protect you. You didn’t say, ‘Don’t come.’ But people play politics. They give people money to go on television and twist facts.”
The ongoing criticism from Wike highlights increasing political tensions and raises broader questions about authenticity, campaign optics, and political theater as the 2027 elections approach.[/p>