Wike criticizes Bishop for failing to acknowledge him as FCT Minister in Port Harcourt

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has taken issue with the Anglican Diocese of Niger Delta’s Bishop, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Oko-Jaja, for failing to acknowledge him in his official role at a Port Harcourt church service.

The event took place at the rededication ceremony of the Rivers State Judiciary for the 2023–2024 legal year.

Alongside Wike during the occasion was the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara. This was their first get-together since their arguments became viral.

Outraged by his lack of recognition, Wike warned everyone not to be viewed as a politician, emphasising that anyone who enter the field will be “rubbed in the mud of politics.”

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“I witnessed the sermon; I watched Bishop Oko-Jaja deliver his sermon yesterday. I observed the prayers that you prayed,” stated Wike.

“I came to the church as a Minister of the FCT; not even the civility to acknowledge that the Minister of FCT came in, and I laughed.”

He went on to say that the Anglicans had praised him during his time as Rivers State governor.

“You were all praising me here and there when I was governor, saying I did this, I did that, fake!” Wike cried out.

Wike reaffirmed that each of them has a responsibility to play and that he is a politician, not a clergyman.

“I inform others. I am not a clergyman; I am a politician. Our roles are our own,” he remarked.

“You have a certain function as a clergy member. I’ve never questioned someone about how they preach. I have never instructed anyone to preach this way.

Wike cautioned the clergy against getting involved in politics because they would face the same consequences as elected officials.

“Take caution if you are not a politician and you don’t want what befalls politicians to happen to you. Because you will likewise be tarnished once you enter politics, according to Wike.

“I am a man of integrity. You know that I’m a guy of integrity, so I wouldn’t have accepted the position of minister of the Federal Capital Territory as an APC non-member. Wike remarked, “Mr. President knows, which is why he appointed me as the FCT minister.”

The irascible lawmaker expressed his profound offence at the bishop’s actions and demanded an apology.

“It is the bishop’s responsibility to show respect to every member of his flock, irrespective of their political stance,” stated Wike.

In the meantime, the bishop preached a lecture titled “Fear Not,” in which he exhorted judges to face their fears and faithfully carry out their judicial duties.