Political Analysis: Wike’s Ministerial Tenure and the Crisis of Discipline in Governance
By Abdulwahab Muhammad, SSA Communication to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammed of Bauchi State
When Senator Ajibola Basiru, APC National Secretary, demanded that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike resign, he struck at the heart of a growing unease in Nigeria’s political landscape. For many observers, Wike’s continued stay in office despite mounting controversies is a portrait of the lack of discipline in the affairs of government.
The Controversies- Found Wanting in Duty:
Critics argue that Wike has failed to discharge his responsibilities as FCT Minister with the seriousness required, distracted by his ongoing battles in Rivers politics.
Expulsion from PDP: His expulsion from his former party, the PDP, raises questions about his political legitimacy. How can a man rejected by his own party now wield influence in APC affairs, despite not being a card-carrying member?
Street Confrontation in Abuja:
His open clash with military personnel in the nation’s capital shocked many Nigerians, symbolizing a breakdown of decorum and respect for institutions at the very heart of federal authority.
“Wike’s continued stay in office — despite being found wanting in duty, expelled from his former party, and embroiled in public confrontations in Abuja — is a stain on Nigeria’s governance.”
What This Reveals
Some schools of thought see Wike’s tenure as emblematic of a deeper malaise: the erosion of discipline in governance. Ministers are expected to embody stability, accountability, and respect for institutions. Yet Wike’s controversies suggest the opposite — a government willing to tolerate indiscipline for political expediency.
Implications for APC and Nigeria
For APC: Allowing Wike to meddle in party affairs despite his outsider status undermines internal cohesion and weakens the authority of legitimate stakeholders.
For Governance: Abuja suffers from a distracted minister, while the spectacle of street fights and party expulsions erodes public confidence in government.
For Nigeria: The episode reinforces perceptions that political office is treated as a personal fiefdom rather than a public trust.
Final Word
Senator Basiru’s call for Wike’s resignation is more than a partisan jab. It is a demand for discipline, accountability, and respect for institutions.
If Nigeria is to restore credibility in its institutions, ministers must be held to higher standards. Wike’s case is a test of whether the APC and President Tinubu’s administration are willing to enforce discipline or continue tolerating indiscipline at the highest levels of government. End.
