The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended taking his sons along on both local and international trips, saying he has every right to do so.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Wike said his sons, who hold master’s degrees, required exposure to governance and the workings of government.
“What law says that my sons shouldn’t travel? Let the FCT show where they paid ₦1,” he said. “What official matter? Did they sign any document? It doesn’t have to be a personal trip. What’s wrong with that? I can travel with anyone from the FCT or anywhere in Nigeria. I have that right.”
He added, “They need to understand how Nigeria works and how government functions.”
When asked whether he was grooming them for politics, Wike denied the claim. “No, that’s not correct. My first son is a lawyer. He said he wouldn’t practise law because he wants to be a farmer. I asked why, and he said, ‘That’s what I want to do,’ so I agreed.”
“They’ve attended training sessions in Spain and Lisbon,” Wike continued. “My second son earned a master’s degree in Economics from King’s College and wants to go into real estate.”
The former Rivers State governor expressed pride in his children, saying they have brought him peace and pride.
“I’m so happy that my children have given me comfort and no problems. Imagine if they were somewhere smoking; people would still criticise and say, ‘Look at Wike’s children.’ I can’t travel with my enemy’s children,” he said with a laugh.
Wike has frequently been seen with his sons at official events, including FCT project inaugurations. Recently, he faced public criticism after being spotted with them at a summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.