“I Didn’t Come from Poverty Like Amaechi” — Wike Defends Wealth

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has denied allegations linking his personal wealth to corruption, stating that he bought his Rolls-Royce with his own money and not through bribes or political favours.

Speaking during an interview on Politics Today aired on Channels Television, Wike dismissed public claims that the luxury car was gifted to him by contractors or political associates.

“I have a Rolls-Royce. So what? Nobody gave it to me. I bought it,” Wike declared. “People ask, ‘With what money?’ Let me tell you — I came from a comfortable background.”

He explained that his father was a general manager of multiple companies, and he had enjoyed a privileged upbringing. “As a student, I was driving a Mercedes-Benz. So don’t let anyone tell you I suddenly became wealthy. I didn’t come from poverty,” he said.

The former Rivers State Governor maintained that his financial success was not a product of corruption but a result of years of public service and personal discipline. “No court has ever indicted me for corruption,” he said. “Wanting to take care of your family doesn’t make you corrupt.”

Addressing accusations from political rivals, Wike acknowledged owning multiple properties, but insisted they were acquired legitimately. “I was a Speaker for four years and Governor for eight years. Of course, I will have property. But that doesn’t make me corrupt,” he said.

He also took a swipe at his longtime political rival, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, suggesting that the allegations against him stem from envy and hypocrisy.

“Someone said I was given a Rolls-Royce by a contractor. That’s a lie. That’s what he did — not me. That’s why he’s angry,” Wike said. “He took a car from someone doing a job for him. That’s bribery, not what I did.”

Wike concluded by reaffirming his belief that his upbringing, political career, and lifestyle set him apart from critics: “You cannot compare where I came from with where others came from. We are not on the same level.”