Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has vehemently denied allegations that he was barred from the Aso Rock Presidential Villa during Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria. The accusation, made by journalist Jackson Ude on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, claimed that Wike was intoxicated while receiving Modi at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Saturday, November 18, 2024.
Jackson Ude further alleged that an anonymous security officer at the Presidential Villa confirmed the incident, suggesting that Wike’s supposed behavior led to his exclusion from Modi’s subsequent visit to Aso Rock.
Wike Sets the Record Straight
Wike, in a statement released by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, dismissed the claims as baseless fabrications. Olayinka clarified that the FCT Minister was fully involved in the official proceedings surrounding Prime Minister Modi’s visit, as directed by President Bola Tinubu.
According to Olayinka, Wike led the Indian Prime Minister from the airport to his hotel on Saturday evening and was present the following morning to escort Modi to the Presidential Villa for his meeting with President Tinubu. “Fact is, the FCT Minister led the Prime Minister to his hotel, from the Airport, and it was from the hotel that he (Wike) led the Prime Minister to the Presidential Villa on Sunday morning, where his duty ended,” the statement read.
To further discredit the journalist’s claims, Wike’s team released photographic evidence showing the minister with the visiting Prime Minister at both the hotel and the Presidential Villa.
Addressing the Allegations
Olayinka accused Jackson Ude of being a habitual purveyor of misinformation, referencing a previous claim by the journalist that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello had fled the country through Niger Republic. This claim was debunked when Bello appeared at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja on September 18, 2024.
“Up till now, Jackson Ude is still spinning lies to defend his initial lies. But for us who know his antecedents, we will not dignify him henceforth,” Olayinka said. He also criticized Ude for repeatedly spreading unfounded rumors about prominent Nigerians, noting that his credibility has been called into question on multiple occasions.
Wike’s Role During Modi’s Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with India, with discussions centered on trade, investment, and strategic partnerships. As FCT Minister, Wike played a key role in receiving the Prime Minister and ensuring the smooth coordination of his itinerary in Abuja.
Wike’s team emphasized that the minister’s duties during Modi’s visit were carried out with professionalism and adherence to protocol, countering any suggestion of misconduct.
Political Implications
The allegations against Wike come amid heightened political scrutiny, as the former Rivers State Governor continues to assert his influence within the current administration. Known for his outspoken nature, Wike has been a prominent figure in President Tinubu’s cabinet since his appointment as FCT Minister.
Observers note that such allegations could be part of a broader attempt to undermine Wike’s political standing. However, his swift response and the release of supporting evidence appear to have quelled any immediate concerns.
