Tinubu–Wike Dynamics: Power, politics, and the battle for control in Abuja, by Tunde Abatan
There is no denying that Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is a political force in his own right. Since joining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, he has stamped his distinct personality, bold style, and uncompromising approach on the FCT administration, using both political capital and visible reforms to justify his relevance in Tinubu’s government.
For many observers, Tinubu needs Wike—not necessarily as the poster face of his administration, but as a strategic anchor in the South-South. It was Wike’s steadfast support that delivered the crucial bloc votes that helped Tinubu gain an advantage over Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi during the 2023 elections. Within and outside the government, even his critics acknowledge that he is no ordinary appointee.
This backdrop frames the recent clash between Wike and serving naval officer Major A.L. Yerima, son of a retired general, over a controversial parcel of land in Abuja.
The confrontation, which many believe could have been avoided, highlights both Wike’s impatience with Abuja’s longstanding violations of the master plan and the resistance from a long-privileged circle of retired and influential military elites.
The land in question is linked to retired Vice Admiral Zubairu Gambo, whose associates argue Wike acted disrespectfully toward the military establishment. But Wike’s supporters insist the real issue is being obscured: the land reportedly lacks proper legal documentation. To them, critics of the minister are sidestepping the central question of legality to focus instead on Wike’s abrasive style.
The encounter has exposed deeper tensions within Tinubu’s administration. Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru’s comment—that the military would not “sacrifice its own” for Wike’s excesses—signals internal division.
Retired General Tukur Buratai’s criticism of Wike further reinforces this widening gap between civilian officials and an influential military class unused to being challenged.
Still, many believe Wike may have been deliberately provoked to display the temperament he is known for, giving opponents within the system ammunition to clip his influence. But what they fail to account for is Tinubu’s unwavering tolerance for his strongest southern ally—one who risked everything to ensure his electoral victory and continues to control the politically significant Rivers State through his protégé, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
To Tinubu, performance matters more than personality. His media aides recently stated that the president sees no issue with Wike “as long as he is delivering,” making it clear that public reprimand is unlikely. At most, Wike may receive a private caution, while a mild disciplinary response may await Major Yerima. Retired AVM Gambo, whose land claim reportedly lacks legal basis, may not receive similar leniency.
With Wike’s recent expulsion from the PDP, his alignment with Tinubu may deepen. Far from weakening him, the PDP crisis might strengthen his hold on Rivers politics, with his allies poised to benefit from emerging party factionalization.
In the coming weeks, the unfolding power dynamics between Wike, the military establishment, and the presidency will be crucial to watch. One thing is clear: Wike remains central to Tinubu’s political calculations, and despite his temperament, he is unlikely to be abandoned by the president anytime soon.
Tunde Abatan, is Publisher, Newdawnngr.com tunde2013abatan@gmail.com
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