The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, spoke out against former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, for joining the “Occupy the National Assembly” protests.
The protest was held in response to the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission during elections.
Wike raised concerns about Amaechi bringing his son, a medical doctor, to the protest, questioning the preparedness to provide medical aid to participants.
He said the son had no medical equipment and there were no ambulances on site, suggesting the presence did not serve a practical purpose.
The FCT Minister also criticized opposition leaders for what he described as inconsistency, questioning why some only call for transparency after leaving office, while remaining silent on reforms when holding government positions.
Amaechi had stated that his attendance at the protest reflected his belief that leaders should stand physically with the people during major demonstrations, rather than observing from afar. He further claimed that the ruling All Progressives Congress opposed the protest out of fear of losing elections.
The remarks by Wike came during the 2026 Distinguished Personality Lecture Series of the Faculty of Social Sciences, where he attended with his sons.
The event drew attention to the ongoing debate over electoral reforms and leaders’ responsibilities during public demonstrations in Nigeria.