In an interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm from 36:36, Kenneth Okonkwo shared sharp criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint Nyesom Wike as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, alleging a strategic intent to weaken the South South and diminish the PDP’s influence.
Okonkwo described the appointment as a calculated move to prevent potential opposition from Wike and to entrench PDP in a subservient role, claiming, “PDP is now servant of servant,” as party members holding governmental roles are ultimately beholden to the President.
Okonkwo speculated on Wike’s likely resistance to Tinubu’s policies had he not been appointed, pointing out that with this appointment, Wike’s leverage is muted as he now “serves the President.” This, Okonkwo contended, underscores a broader strategy of using ministerial positions as tools for political control rather than for advancing public welfare.
WHAT HE SAID
“On the day that the President appointed the FCT Minister, that was when I knew he was going to deal ruthlessly with the South South, both in appointment, both in everything. You could imagine what Wike would have been saying to this government, if he was not part of this Government. The reason they appointed him is to emasculate the PDP. PDP is now servant of servant because when you have a minister in government, you’re a servant to the government. PDP is serving Wike and then the FCT minister is serving the president.”