Wike Snubs Council of State Meeting: What the Suspension of His Monthly Briefings Signals

 There are indications that Nyesom Wike's absence from the National Council of State meeting is linked to the Presidency's reported intention to terminate his regular monthly media briefings as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to reports, Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State, represented the FCT at the conference, which was attended by past Nigerian leaders, state governors, and former Chief Justices of the Federation.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers state attended the meeting, as did all the other governors.

Former military presidents, including Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, attended the hybrid summit online.

 Learned from a trustworthy source at the Presidential Villa that Wike was barred from holding monthly press briefings due to rising worries about the controversies and widespread public dissatisfaction produced by his frequent briefs.

The Presidency stated that the decision was made following a careful examination of the existing political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election.

"Some government officials have expressed concern regarding Wike's media appearances and statements.

Aside from the growing dissatisfaction, Wike's aggressive stance is viewed as bringing unwanted attention to the President due to threats and harsh remarks.

"Wike is doing very well with infrastructures development in the FCT and the President is pleased with his achievements so far, but these briefings have become a source of negative publicity for him and by extension, for Mr. President too" according to our informants.

Our sources, who did not want his name published, denied that President Tinubu and the FCT Minister had a romantic relationship.

The FCT Minister understands that he cannot fight the President, and I can assure you that they are still the best of friends.

President Tinubu does not like making enemies, rather, for those close to him, we know that he prefers to bring people together and unite people. He did, however, voice concern that if not addressed, Wike's outbursts, particularly towards the nation's elders, could exacerbate political difficulties, instil animosity for the President, and lead to additional diversion.

Wike is alleged to be putting pressure on Femi Gbajabiamila, the President's Chief of Staff, to rethink the prohibition.

It should be noted that this may have been a major reason for Wike's failure to hold the briefing on a regular basis during the first week of the month, specifically on the second of each month.