Wike Rejects Amaechi’s VP Ambition, Says Former Governor Made Pregnant Woman Give Birth in Prison

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the emergence of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questioning his suitability for the position ahead of the 2027 general election.

Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during a media chat in Abuja, where he accused his former political rival of using political power to oppress Nigerians during his tenure as Rivers State governor.

The FCT minister alleged that Amaechi once ordered the closure of courts across Rivers State, claiming the action had severe consequences for residents, including a pregnant woman who, according to him, gave birth while in prison.

“Rotimi Amaechi, who wants to be Vice President today, once shut down the courts in Rivers State and caused a pregnant woman to give birth in prison,” Wike said.

He questioned Amaechi’s moral standing to aspire to become Nigeria’s vice president, citing what he described as the former governor’s past actions while in office.

Wike and Amaechi have remained political rivals for years, with their disagreement dating back to their respective periods of influence in Rivers State politics.

Wike Attacks NBA

During the media chat, Wike also criticised the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), accusing the professional body of abandoning its traditional role and becoming politically partisan.

“The Nigerian Bar Association has now taken sides politically. They are now a political party,” he said.

The minister’s criticism of the NBA comes amid the association’s repeated condemnation of several decisions and policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The NBA was among the groups that raised concerns over the Federal Government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State last year, an action that triggered widespread debate over constitutional and democratic principles.

Wike’s latest comments further highlight the deep political divisions surrounding the 2027 elections, particularly within Rivers State, where his rivalry with Amaechi has remained a major feature of the state’s political landscape.

The allegations made by Wike about Amaechi’s actions in office could not be independently verified from the information available at the time of publication.