Dele Farotimi’s Recent Statement on Nyesom Wike
Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has indeed described Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, as a “genius” in political recruitment. This comment came despite Farotimi’s clear personal disdain for Wike, which he emphasized in the same statement. The remark appears to stem from Wike’s strategic selection of Siminalayi Fubara as his successor in Rivers State, a move Farotimi views as shrewdly manipulative, allowing Wike to maintain significant influence over the governor.
Key Details from Farotimi’s Statement
Farotimi shared his views in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on September 24, 2025, responding to discussions about Fubara’s leadership and the Ijaw ethnic group’s historical resilience. Here’s the exact quote from his post:
“You should applaud Wike’s recruitment genius, not question the Ijaw’s historic record of bravery. I don’t like Wike, there’s absolutely nothing to emulate or to eulogize in him, BUT on this matter of the Simpleton known as Fubara, I am persuaded to acknowledge his genius.”
- Context: Farotimi argues that Wike “installed” Fubara in office, anticipating his pliability, which has allowed Wike to exert ongoing control despite their public rift. He contrasts this with figures like Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who earned her position through fierce competition rather than installation.
- Tone: While acknowledging Wike’s tactical acumen, Farotimi remains sharply critical, referring to Fubara derogatorily as a “Simpleton” and underscoring that Wike offers no broader positive example.
This statement aligns with Farotimi’s history of outspoken criticism of Wike. For instance, in July 2025, he called Wike the “poster boy of the Nigerian ruining crass,” prompting a retort from Wike’s aide labeling Farotimi a “human rice and beans activist.” Farotimi has also previously described Wike as “cacophonous, parasitic, narcissistic, lilliputian, gluttonous, [and] myopic.”
Broader Implications
Farotimi’s comment highlights the ongoing power dynamics in Rivers State politics, where Wike’s influence persists post-governorship. It also reflects his pattern of blending praise for specific skills with broader condemnation of political figures he sees as emblematic of Nigeria’s systemic issues. As of today (September 24, 2025), this has sparked online debates about ethnic narratives (e.g., Ijaw bravery) and leadership accountability in the region.
If you’d like more on the full X thread, related news coverage, or analysis of Wike-Fubara tensions, let me know!