The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has categorically denied social media reports suggesting he collapsed at an event last week. Addressing journalists on Thursday during an inspection of four ongoing projects in Abuja, including the International Conference Centre, Wike dismissed the rumours as baseless and politically motivated.
The former Governor of Rivers State described the claims circulating online as the work of individuals seeking to exploit falsehoods for cheap political gains. He accused detractors of attempting to divert public attention from significant issues, such as revelations made by George Nwaeke, the immediate past Rivers State Head of Service, regarding the explosion at the Rivers State House of Assembly.
In his remarks, Wike said, “I don’t want to give credence to people who are only interested in spreading rumours. First of all, I’m a human being; it’s not a ghost that will collapse it’s a human being that will collapse if there’s any issue with their health. Unfortunately, I did not collapse.”
The minister further emphasized that life and death are ultimately determined by divine will. “Everybody will die one day; nobody will remain forever. But it is only God that can tell you when you will die not human beings. Some of them who said I will die, I can assure you that I will write their condolence letter,” he added with characteristic wit.
Wike also reaffirmed his dedication to fulfilling President Bola Tinubu’s mandate for the Federal Capital Territory. He assured Nigerians that his focus remains on delivering impactful projects and governance rather than engaging in distractions fueled by baseless allegations.
The rumours, which gained traction on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), alleged that Wike collapsed at an event in Abuja last Friday and was subsequently flown abroad for medical treatment. However, these claims were debunked when Wike made a public appearance two days later. He joined other dignitaries on a Sallah homage to President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, where he appeared energetic and in high spirits.
Earlier, Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, had dismissed the reports as entirely false, urging Nigerians to disregard them. The minister’s public activities and robust demeanor have further dispelled concerns about his health, reinforcing his commitment to serving the nation amidst attempts to undermine his credibility.
