Olayinka Hits Back at ADC Chieftain Over Wike’s ‘Nuisance Value’ comment

Lere Olayinka, an aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to criticism from an African Democratic Congress chieftain, Ibrahim Modibbo, who described the minister’s media appearances as being of little value.

Olayinka gave his response on Friday, September 5, 2026, during a discussion on AIT’s Democracy Today. He defended Wike’s political record, arguing that the minister’s outspoken nature has not prevented him from achieving major political positions.

The exchange followed comments by Modibbo, who criticised Wike over his activities during elections and advised him to remain at home during the 2027 general elections. The ADC chieftain also accused the former Rivers governor of harassing voters during the recent local government election in the state.

Modibbo further dismissed Wike’s regular media engagements, describing them as lacking political value.

In his response, Olayinka said the same quality being criticised had contributed to Wike’s political rise. He pointed to Wike’s time as chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State and his later election as governor of the state for two terms.

Wike served as chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area from 1999 to 2007 before becoming governor of Rivers State in 2015. He completed two terms in office and left the position in May 2023.

Olayinka also referred to Wike’s political predictions and activities during the 2023 presidential election. He recalled that Wike had opposed the presidential ambition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar at the time, noting that Atiku did not win the election.

The FCT minister’s aide used these examples to question Modibbo’s description of Wike’s political influence as a nuisance. He argued that there was a difference between a political style that has produced electoral victories and one that has not resulted in the same level of political success.

The exchange comes as political parties and their supporters intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections. Wike remains an influential figure in Rivers politics, while his comments and political activities have continued to attract reactions from opposition groups and other political actors.

With the 2027 elections approaching, disagreements between Wike’s camp and opposition figures are expected to continue as parties seek to strengthen their support and challenge one another ahead of the polls.