Wike Warns Against Elite Power Sharing at Idoma Centenary Plus celebrations
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called for a shift from political power-sharing arrangements to governance that delivers tangible benefits to Nigerians, insisting that representation must translate into improved living conditions for citizens.
Wike said political inclusion would remain incomplete without economic inclusion, stressing that ordinary Nigerians were more concerned about employment, healthcare, quality education and reliable infrastructure than the distribution of political positions among elites.
The Minister spoke on Thursday, October 15, 2026, while delivering a keynote address at the First Idoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, organised in collaboration with Ochetoha K’Idoma as part of the ongoing Idoma Centenary Plus celebrations.
Speaking on the theme, “People, Politics and Power Play in Nigeria: The Agitation for Equity and Fairness,” Wike argued that the national debate on fairness should move beyond zoning arrangements and political rotation to focus on what serves the common good.
He maintained that political power should be treated as a public trust rather than an instrument for sectional domination or personal accumulation.
According to him, although federal character and institutional arrangements are important in managing Nigeria’s diversity, they cannot guarantee fairness without a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.
Wike urged political leaders to move from the question of whose turn it was to occupy public office to determining what was right for the country.
He also cautioned against allowing the pursuit of diversity and representation to undermine competence, noting that public office holders should be assessed based on their contributions to national development and the positive impact of their leadership on citizens.
The FCT Minister further emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity should be harnessed to expand the pool of talent available for national development rather than become a basis for compromising merit.
He called on communities across the country to view their heritage as a contribution to national unity and the building of a just, inclusive and prosperous society anchored on the rule of law.
Wike commended the organisers of the Idoma Hall of Fame for establishing a platform to preserve history, celebrate outstanding achievements and inspire future generations.
Earlier, the founder and Chief Executive of the Idoma Hall of Fame, Agaba Ikwue, said the initiative was established to recognise individuals who had made significant contributions to the cultural, social and intellectual development of the Idoma people.
Ikwue disclosed that the organisation also planned to establish a museum, provide educational resources for tourism and research, and promote cultural exchange.
He said its objectives included preserving Idoma heritage, encouraging community engagement, promoting the Idoma language, inspiring younger generations and advancing gender equality.
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