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“Amaechi Not Hungry For Food But Power’ – Wike Fires Back At Ex-Minister

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of being “hungry for power, not food,” following Amaechi’s recent comments on Nigeria’s economic hardship.

Amaechi, while speaking at his 60th birthday celebration last week, decried the state of the economy, saying: “We’re all hungry, all of us are. If you’re not hungry, I am.

For us in the opposition, if you want us to remove the man in power, we can remove him from this power.”

The former governor also criticised the Nigerian political class, claiming, “In Nigeria, there are no capitalist ideas among the politicians; it’s about sharing.”

However, Wike, who succeeded Amaechi as governor of Rivers State, dismissed the comment during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

“We have no time to listen to nonsense in Nigeria,” Wike said. “I don’t understand why a man like Amaechi would choose his 60th birthday to lie to Nigerians about being hungry.”

Highlighting Amaechi’s long history in government, Wike questioned his sincerity.

“He was Speaker from 1999 to 2007, Governor from 2007 to 2015, and Minister from 2015 to 2023. He never spoke about hunger during those years. Why now?” the FCT Minister asked.

Wike went on to suggest that Amaechi’s comments were motivated by a desire to return to power rather than genuine concern for the people.

“Now they are regrouping. They are only hungry for power. This shows his failure,” Wike stated.

“How can you trivialise the issue of hunger? He joined Atiku and claimed hunger. It is clear he cannot stay out of power.

”He also took a jab at Amaechi’s political performance, referencing the 2019 elections.

“From 1999 to 2023, Amaechi stood before Nigerians and claimed hunger. He was a former governor who couldn’t secure even 25% for Buhari during elections, despite being the campaign DG,” Wike said.

Wike further praised himself as a political asset, aligning with President Bola Tinubu and dismissing suggestions of instability.

“I am not a liability; I am an asset. You may dislike me, but I am an asset in ensuring President Tinubu wins a second term,” he declared.

Commenting on Amaechi’s statement about “removing” those in power, Wike warned against what he described as inciting rhetoric.

“Let’s see how he plans to remove the president. Is it a military coup? The term ‘removal’ is synonymous with dictatorship or military coup.

“Nigerians remember what happened in 2015, and now he claims Nigerians are hungry,” he said.

Both Wike and Amaechi have had a storied rivalry, having served consecutively as governors of Rivers State.

While Amaechi was a two-term governor and later Minister of Transportation under Muhammadu Buhari, Wike served as Minister of State for Education and later became governor from 2015 to 2023 before joining the Tinubu administration.

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JUST IN: El-Rufai Leaves State High Court for Federal High Court in Kaduna

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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has concluded proceedings at the State High Court in Kaduna and is now proceeding to the Federal High Court for the continuation of another suit.

El-Rufai, who was earlier present at the State High Court for the continuation of his trial, left the premises after the sitting ended.

He is expected to appear before the Federal High Court in Kaduna for further proceedings related to another case.

Security presence remained visible around both court premises as proceedings attracted attention from observers and supporters.

Details of the proceedings at the Federal High Court are expected to emerge as the matter continues.

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El-Rufai Appear in State High Court, after Mother’s death, as Trial Continues

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The former Kaduna State Governor, Nasiru El-Rufai, on Tuesday morning arrived at the Kaduna State High Court for the trial, and there after he is expected to proceed to the Federal High Courtfor continuation of his proceedings.

The former governor arrived at the Kaduna State High Court amid tight security presence, as legal teams from both sides prepare to continue hearing in the matter. El-Rufai is also scheduled to appear before the Federal High Court for continuation of related legal processes.

The case continues to attract significant public attention, with observers closely monitoring developments across both courts.

Details of the matters to be addressed in both courts have not been fully disclosed, but outcomes from the hearings are expected to influence the direction of the trial.

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Nigeria Welcomes African Games Bid Evaluation Committee

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Nigeria officially welcomed the African Games Bid Evaluation Committee on Monday, marking a significant step in the nation’s quest to host the 2031 African Games.

The delegation, led by Dr. Decius Chipande, was received by top officials of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and treated to a comprehensive and compelling presentation showcasing Nigeria’s readiness, capacity, and vision to host a memorable Games.

Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, in his remarks, reaffirmed the solid support of the Federal Government for the bid.

He emphasized that hosting the African Games remains a national priority, backed by strong political will and a commitment to deliver world-class infrastructure, seamless organization, and a lasting legacy for African sports.

Director General of the Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, presented Nigeria’s strategic sponsorship and marketing framework, outlining innovative approaches to funding and commercial partnerships.

He noted that Nigeria’s large market, vibrant sports culture, and growing private sector interest provide a solid foundation for a financially successful Games.

Providing further depth to the bid, ace broadcaster and Bid Coordinator, Mainasara Ilo, delivered an engaging presentation on legacy, highlighting how the Games would catalyze youth development, infrastructure expansion, and community impact across the country.

On the technical front, former Director of Medicine at the Commission, Dr. Paul Onyedo, detailed Nigeria’s preparedness in sports medicine and its scientific approach to anti-doping, testing, and athlete health management, aligning with international best practices.

In addition, Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa presented the country’s comprehensive welfare framework, assuring the Committee of Nigeria’s readiness to provide a safe, secure, and athlete-centered environment throughout the Games.

The Evaluation Committee commended Nigeria’s presentation, noting the clarity of vision, depth of planning, and strong alignment between government and private sector stakeholders.

The Committee commenced inspection of key facilities on Monday, with further assessments on Tuesday.

Nigeria remains confident that its compelling bid, backed by experience, infrastructure, and national commitment, positions the country strongly to host a historic and impactful African Games.

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