Former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has asserted that the political influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is in decline, describing his recent public conduct as damaging and unsustainable.
Sowore made the remarks during an interview with SYMFONI TV on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, where he reacted to comments attributed to Wike that he said were emotional and confrontational. According to him, the FCT minister’s repeated verbal attacks on critics reflect a loss of political balance and relevance.
The activist recalled that he had predicted such an outcome in 2025, arguing that Wike’s decision to publicly mention his name during what he described as an “irrational outburst” marked a turning point.
“I said it in 2025—when he dragged my name into his madness—that was the end of his political career,” Sowore said, adding that such a decline could not be reversed.
Sowore maintained that Nigerian politics is undergoing a gradual shift, with citizens paying closer attention to leadership conduct, accountability, and democratic values rather than political bravado. He argued that leaders who resort to insults and intimidation often do so after losing moral authority and public confidence.
He further noted that Wike’s style has alienated sections of the electorate, particularly young voters and civil society actors who demand transparency and tolerance for dissent. According to Sowore, credibility and restraint are now central to political survival.
Placing the issue within a broader democratic context, Sowore described the situation as a struggle between old political practices and growing public demand for responsible governance. He stressed that criticism is a core element of democracy and should not be met with hostility.
Although he did not reference the specific statements that prompted his reaction, Sowore’s comments come amid ongoing controversies surrounding the FCT administration, including labour-related disputes. Wike, known for his combative political approach, continues to draw mixed reactions for his blunt responses to critics.
Sowore Declares End to Wike’s Political Relevance Over Public Outbursts
