Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the presence of his sons at official engagements in Nigeria and abroad, insisting that no law prevents him from travelling with them.
Appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Wike addressed the viral photos showing his sons accompanying him to events, including a recent summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
“What law says that my sons shouldn’t travel? Let the FCT say where they paid one naira,” Wike said.
“What official matter? Did they sign any document? I have the right to travel with anyone from the FCT or from anywhere in Nigeria.”
The former Rivers State governor explained that his sons, who hold master’s degrees, are gaining exposure through these trips.
“They have to know how Nigeria works. They have to learn about government,” he said.
When asked whether he was grooming them for political careers, Wike dismissed the suggestion.
“No, that’s not correct. My first son is a lawyer but says he wants to be a farmer. He’s trained in Spain and Lisbon. My second son has a master’s in Economics from King’s College and wants to go into real estate,” he explained.
Wike said he was grateful for the discipline and character of his children, contrasting them with what he described as wayward behaviour seen elsewhere.
“I’m happy that I have children who give me comfort and not problems. Assuming they were somewhere smoking, you’d have said, ‘Look at Wike’s children.’ I will not travel with my enemy’s children,” he added.
Photos of Wike and his sons at official ceremonies, including project inaugurations in Abuja, have circulated widely online, drawing mixed reactions.
Critics recently faulted the minister for taking them to an international summit in Dubai, but Wike insists he has done nothing wrong.
