Sunday, April 6, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, travelled to Port Harcourt.
The Minister arrived in a luxurious Rolls-Royce and went straight to the residence of Senator Barry Mpigi, a prominent political figure in the region.
The visit which was captured in a video was shared on X by Lere Olayinka, the FCT Minister’s media aide showed Wike stepping out of his vehicle and engaging in a light-hearted activity playing table tennis seemingly to counter ongoing health speculations.
Wike’s arrival comes amid rumors about his well-being, which intensified after his absence from President Bola Tinubu’s 73rd birthday celebration in March 2025.
Reports, including one from Akelicious, claimed Wike had collapsed in Abuja and sought medical treatment in France, fueling public concern. However, his appearance in Port Harcourt, engaging in a recreational sport, appeared to be a deliberate move to dispel these rumors.
The minister’s choice of a Rolls-Royce, a symbol of luxury often associated with many political elites in Nigeria. While some praised Wike’s resilience, others criticized the display of wealth as insensitive, given Nigeria’s economic challenges.
Wike’s trip underscores his enduring political influence in Rivers State, even as he navigates national duties and public scrutiny.
