Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has condemned the conduct of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during the burial of the mother of former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi.
Dalung described the development as “deeply embarrassing,” arguing that political differences should not override basic decency, particularly during moments of bereavement.
Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi, mother of the former governor, was buried at Ubima, Rivers State, on Sunday, while a political reception hosted by Wike was reportedly held at nearby Omagwa.
The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) had alleged that security restrictions along the route connecting the two communities were deliberately imposed to frustrate access to the burial. Dalung, however, said the allegation should be properly investigated and established.
According to him, the controversy went beyond the reported road restrictions, arguing that Wike’s comments at the reception reflected the extent to which political rivalry had become excessive.
Dalung said Wike reportedly used the occasion to insist that Amaechi would not defeat him in the 2027 elections.
He questioned the appropriateness of such comments on a day when Amaechi was burying his mother.
“A man is burying his mother, and your overriding political message on that particular day is that you will defeat him at the polls,” Dalung said.
He argued that political opponents could disagree, campaign against one another and even defeat each other electorally, but there should be limits to political rivalry.
“There must still be red lines in public life,” he said, stressing that “death should be one of them.”
Dalung also dismissed the perception that Wike’s influence was derived solely from his position as FCT Minister.
He argued that Wike’s current political influence was largely strengthened by the political backing and confidence he enjoys from the Presidency, particularly because of his role in advancing President Bola Tinubu’s political interests and confronting opposition forces.
“Take away that political cover and much of what Nigerians presently perceive as Wike’s extraordinary power changes immediately,” he said.
According to Dalung, the bigger question is not whether Wike can politically intimidate Amaechi, but whether anyone within the government can call the FCT Minister to order when his actions allegedly cross established boundaries.
He said the issue had become bigger than the longstanding rivalry between Wike and Amaechi, arguing that it raised questions about the use of public authority in political disputes.
Dalung also challenged President Tinubu to intervene, saying political calculations and alliances should not supersede institutional responsibility.
“A minister cannot be allowed to behave as though his political battles are state business,” he said.
He further warned against the alleged use of public authority against political opponents, particularly during moments of personal grief.
Dalung said his position was not based on political loyalty to Amaechi, noting that he had disagreed with both Amaechi and Wike on political matters.
He stressed that the same standard should apply regardless of political affiliation, saying the death of a parent should attract dignity and compassion irrespective of who is involved.
“If tomorrow Wike loses a parent, I would expect the same dignity to be accorded to him,” he said.
He added that the same principle would apply if former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi or President Tinubu were mourning the loss of a parent.
Dalung concluded by urging the President to “draw the line,” warning that political power must have limits.
“Call Wike to order before it’s too late,” he said.
— Solomon Dalung, Esq.
