Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike as a minister in his cabinet.
Fayose made the call on Sunday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme. He said that Wike has the skills and experience necessary to serve in a ministerial role, and that he would be a valuable asset to the government.
Fayose also said that Wike and the other “rebel governors” who supported Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election should be rewarded for their loyalty. He said that they should be given positions in the government, or at the very least, be consulted on important decisions.
“I want Wike to be in cabinet. Wike has what it takes to serve Nigeria. Wike is an articulate, capacity person. Nigeria needs (an) average bad person. I support Wike. If Asiwaju finds him or any of the G5 worthy, please serve in Asiwaju’s government.
“I will be disappointed if Asiwaju does not equally appreciate them for what they stand to represent. Wike must serve. Wike is still a young man. I’m his senior brother, he can’t deny that. Wike is an asset to Nigeria. Wike is never timid, he confronts challenges. Asiwaju needs a man like Wike.” Fayose said
Tinubu has not yet announced his cabinet, but there has been speculation that he will include some members of the opposition in his government. Wike is one of the most prominent opposition figures in Nigeria, and his appointment as a minister would be a significant coup for Tinubu.
Wike was a key figure in the PDP primaries, but he lost to Atiku Abubakar. He was subsequently critical of Atiku’s campaign, and he even refused to campaign for him in some states. However, he eventually endorsed Atiku and campaigned for him in the general election.
Wike is a controversial figure, but he is also a popular one. He is known for his strong personality and his willingness to speak his mind. He is also seen as a capable administrator.
The news of Fayose’s call for Wike’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised Wike’s qualifications and his loyalty to Tinubu, while others have criticized his temperament and his past behavior.
It remains to be seen whether Tinubu will appoint Wike as a minister. However, Fayose’s call for his appointment is a sign that Wike is still a major player in Nigerian politics.
The appointment of Wike as a minister would be a significant development in Nigerian politics. It would be a sign that Tinubu is willing to reach out to the opposition, and it would also be a reward for Wike’s loyalty. However, it is also possible that Tinubu will decide not to appoint Wike, in order to avoid controversy.
