BREAKING: Tinubu Reportedly Gags Wike, Halts Monthly Press Briefings Over Rising Political Tension

Presidency uneasy over FCT minister’s outbursts, alleged misconduct

The Presidency has reportedly stopped the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, from holding his monthly press briefings, following rising concerns over his frequent public outbursts and the growing political tension in Rivers State.

According to reports, the decision was taken after senior government officials expressed discomfort that Wike’s media engagements had become increasingly confrontational and politically charged — often featuring threats, inflammatory remarks, and veiled attacks on perceived opponents.

A presidency source, quoted by Leaders.ng, said the move became necessary after fears grew that the minister’s harsh words against political figures and elders from Rivers State could reignite the tension that recently began to subside.

> “One of the reasons for this step is that Rivers State is only just regaining calm after Wike lobbied President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency when Governor Sim Fubara denied him access to the state treasury,” the source revealed.

Another top aide reportedly said Wike’s repeated verbal assaults on Rivers elders who tried to mediate the political crisis between him and Governor Fubara raised fresh concerns within the presidency about the risk of renewed unrest.

> “The president’s camp is worried that Wike’s public comments, especially against respected elders, could once again plunge Rivers into chaos,” the aide added.

Despite the alleged directive, sources close to the minister said Wike is resisting the order and has reached out to the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, seeking his intervention to have the ban lifted.

The lingering feud between Wike and Governor Fubara has been one of the most explosive political confrontations of 2025, prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State — a move that was later endorsed by the National Assembly.

The reported suspension of Wike’s press sessions also comes amid ongoing allegations of corruption and financial misconduct. Media reports have linked the FCT minister to the alleged secret purchase of three lakeside properties in Winter Springs, Florida, reportedly acquired through large cash transactions and later transferred to his children through quitclaim deeds.

A senior government official was quoted as saying:

> “The optics are bad for this administration. Having a minister who cannot be controlled or cautioned publicly is not a good signal for the presidency.”

While the Presidency is yet to issue an official statement, sources confirmed that Wike will still be allowed to speak through “vetted and approved media channels” when necessary, but his regular monthly briefings have been suspended indefinitely.