“A Greedy Glutton Has No Business Lecturing on Virtue”—Odinkalu Blasts Wike Over Alleged Public Funds Binge

Renowned human rights lawyer and academic Professor Chidi Odinkalu has lambasted Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, labeling him a “greedy glutton” consuming Nigeria’s resources at an alarming rate. Odinkalu, known for his bold stance on social and political issues, took to social media to express his outrage, calling Wike’s public spending habits and moral authority into question.

In a fiery statement, Odinkalu wrote, “A greedy glutton has no business giving lectures on the virtues of being teetotal.” His comments come on the heels of remarks made by Wike, who, during the launch of the FCT’s N10 billion “Renewed Hope” program, disparaged Odinkalu’s professional record, questioning his accomplishments and his professorship.

Wike’s jab appeared to be an attempt to undermine Odinkalu’s credentials, but Odinkalu’s swift response has since set off a public debate. In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Odinkalu criticized Wike’s record in governance, implying he has indulged in what he called “Nigeria’s sovereign feeding bottle.” Odinkalu also lambasted Wike’s perceived entitlement, stating, “Mr. Wike now thinks he must be worshipped and glorified. But Nigeria is not his grove, and we did not escort him to the country.”

Wike, who has held multiple high-profile roles including Chief of Staff to the Governor of Rivers State, Minister of State for Education, and Rivers Governor, is seen by many as one of Nigeria’s most controversial political figures. Odinkalu’s characterization of Wike as the “greedy glutton of Nigerian politics” comes at a time when public frustration with the political elite’s access to and alleged abuse of public funds is running high.

Odinkalu’s remarks did not go unnoticed. Many public figures, professionals, and citizens rallied behind his critique, expressing dissatisfaction with Wike’s spending and influence. Rivers State Information Commissioner, Ibim Semenitari, and Professor Chike Osegbue, among others, joined in condemning what they described as Wike’s “irrational audacity of greed.”