Video: “Why I Don’t Like Mentioning Wike’s Name” – Amaechi

Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has expressed his reluctance to discuss the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, claiming that Wike “passed through” him during their political careers. In a revealing interview with Ebere TV, Amaechi shared insights into his political journey and the relationships he has built along the way.

“I don’t like calling his name,” Amaechi stated regarding Wike, who served as his Chief of Staff during his tenure as governor. He challenged critics by asserting, “Name any Rivers politician that didn’t pass through me.”

Amaechi reflected on the early days of his political career, emphasizing the significance of character over wealth in the political landscape of Rivers State. He described two factions during his rise: the financially struggling Rufus George camp and the affluent Abule’s camp, which attracted many aspiring politicians due to its resources.

“We hardly had food to eat,” Amaechi recalled about the Rufus George camp. “But those of us who bothered about character, because my father taught me character, stood with Rufus without knowing if we would win or not.”

Despite the odds, he praised the eventual success of their alliance, noting, “At the end of the day, God delivered us, and we became government. He became governor, and I became Special Assistant.”

Amaechi also highlighted his support for former Governor Peter Odili, stating, “The same thing with Odili; he didn’t have money, but we stood with him because it’s about character. The crop of politicians then is different from what we have now.”

He concluded with a reflection on the values he instills in those who have worked with him: “For anybody who passed through me, the first thing you learn is about honesty; if they are honest, then they have done well.”