Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Dr. Reuben Abati, has accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of undermining President Bola Tinubu and exposing him to public ridicule through political activities in Rivers State.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, Abati criticized Wike’s claim of leading a “rainbow coalition” in Rivers State, noting that the minister lacks authority to interfere in the affairs of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Abati emphasized that APC leaders, including National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, have publicly stated that Wike, as a non-member of the party, has no business meddling in its internal matters.

He further pointed out that Wike’s former party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has repeatedly disowned him, affirming that he is no longer affiliated with the party.

Abati also faulted Wike for allegedly abandoning his ministerial duties to engage in political activities in Rivers State, describing his actions as premature campaigning for President Tinubu:

“A minister of the Federal Capital Territory has abandoned his post to go door-to-door in Rivers State, campaigning for the president without authorization from the APC. This undermines President Tinubu and exposes him to public embarrassment.”

He added that Wike’s activities in Rivers State could be seen as irresponsible and politically disruptive, arguing that such actions do little to help the president and may instead upstage him.

Abati concluded that Wike’s political maneuvers in Rivers State were “very ridiculous” and highlighted complaints from senior APC members regarding the minister’s conduct.