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The ongoing #WikeAssetProbe has intensified political tension within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as calls grow for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over alleged corruption and deepening divisions in Rivers State.
Influential APC elders are reportedly advising the president to end his alliance with Wike and instead build a strategic partnership with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who has gained increasing public sympathy following his fallout with his former political godfather.
The controversy began when petitions surfaced accusing Wike of abuse of office and questionable allocation of prime lands in Abuja, allegedly involving billions of naira.
Civil society groups and opposition figures have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter, fueling the viral #WikeAssetProbe hashtag across social media platforms.
Wike’s camp, however, dismissed the allegations as “baseless and politically motivated,” insisting that the Minister’s actions were in line with due process.
But insiders within the presidency say the weight of the allegations — coupled with rising political tension in Rivers — has forced the president’s advisers to reassess Wike’s role in the administration.
Several senior figures in the APC, including members of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC), reportedly met with President Tinubu in recent weeks, urging him to distance himself from Wike and realign with Governor Fubara to strengthen the party’s position in the South-South ahead of 2027.
One elder, quoted anonymously, said:
“The party cannot afford distractions or scandals going into 2027. Fubara has the people’s support — aligning with him would be a strategic move.”
Analysts say the development reflects a major internal power shift and signals possible political realignment in the coming months.
Inside sources suggest that President Tinubu is treading carefully, balancing loyalty, political pragmatism, and public perception.
While some within the presidency believe removing Wike could send a strong anti-corruption message, others warn it could destabilize the administration’s
fragile coalition in the South-South region.
For now, the president has reportedly ordered a confidential review of Wike’s performance and conduct, which may influence the final decision on whether to retain or dismiss the FCT Minister.
The #WikeAssetProbe has reignited debates about accountability, transparency, and loyalty in governance.
Many Nigerians see it as a litmus test for President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, particularly his promise to restore public trust and fight corruption without favoritism.
Political watchers say Tinubu’s response could shape the ruling party’s credibility and determine its electoral fortunes heading into 2027.
