Fresh controversy has erupted around the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, following the resurfacing of a 2016 audio in which he allegedly threatened officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The development comes shortly after widespread backlash over Wike’s recent remark suggesting he would have “shot” a Channels Television anchor during a live broadcast. The comment, directed at journalist Seun Okinbaloye, drew criticism from civil society groups, media organisations and opposition figures.
Wike made the remark while reacting to Okinbaloye’s comments on Politics Today, where the anchor raised concerns about Nigeria potentially drifting toward a one-party state amid internal crises within the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections. In response, Wike said he would have “shot” the presenter if he could break through the screen, a statement that quickly sparked public outrage.
Old Audio Raises New Questions
As some of Wike’s aides attempt to downplay the incident as a one-off outburst, an older audio recording has resurfaced, suggesting a pattern of controversial statements.
First reported by SaharaReporters in December 2016, the audio allegedly captures Wike—then Rivers State governor—speaking with INEC officials, political associates and others during legislative rerun elections in the state.
According to the report, the conversations included claims of payments made to electoral officials to influence outcomes in favour of Peoples Democratic Party candidates across several local government areas, including Etche, Khana and Ikwerre.
The recording also allegedly contains discussions about pressuring opponents and references to violence during the elections. In one instance, an electoral official reportedly complained about inadequate payment, prompting an angry response from Wike, who insisted funds had already been disbursed.
Tensions escalated when an electoral officer allegedly refused to sign a result sheet linked to the arrangement. In response, Wike was quoted as issuing threats against the official and others involved if they failed to comply or refund the money.
Link to Earlier Political Tensions
Another leaked audio from the same period reportedly captured a conversation between Wike and former Ekiti State governor, Ayo Fayose. In the exchange, Wike allegedly spoke about the Rivers rerun elections, while Fayose praised his handling of the situation despite what he described as military interference.
The rerun elections in Rivers State were widely reported to have been marred by violence and irregularities, with multiple casualties recorded at the time. Observers had raised concerns about the conduct of political actors and the role they played in escalating tensions.
The re-emergence of these recordings has intensified scrutiny of Wike’s past and present statements, especially in light of his recent controversial remarks involving a journalist.
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