President Bola Tinubu has issued a firm directive to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urging him to concentrate fully on his official responsibilities in the nation’s capital or risk removal from his post. The warning was communicated through Mr. Ibrahim Ya’u Darazo, Special Adviser to the President on Political and Intergovernmental Affairs, during a news briefing in Abuja on January 13, 2026.
Darazo emphasised that all political officeholders must uphold the dignity and integrity of their roles by focusing on assigned duties and avoiding activities that could “heat the polity” or divert attention from governance. The statement made it clear that any engagement in political disputes outside the scope of official responsibilities, particularly those that could undermine service delivery, would not be tolerated by the Presidency.
Wike, a former Governor of Rivers State, has recently been involved in a public political standoff with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, drawing attention and criticism that he may be sidetracked from overseeing developmental initiatives in Abuja. In response to the warning, the minister acknowledged that his performance remains his own responsibility and affirmed that President Tinubu retains the authority to dismiss him if deemed necessary.
Political observers note that the directive highlights the Tinubu administration’s focus on accountability and effective governance among its appointees. Calls for discipline in public office come as various groups and party figures comment on Wike’s political engagements, including separate demands for his resignation over perceived interference in partisan matters.
