Nyesom Wike has carved a place for himself in Nigeria’s political history. Whether seen as a hero by his supporters or a force to overcome by his opponents, Wike’s influence cannot be denied. His name has become synonymous with innovative political strategy, earning him recognition as a dynamic catalyst capable of redefining the political landscape.
To understand contemporary Nigerian politics, one must recognize Wike’s role as both master tactician and disruptor. His methods have become essential topics of discussion among political analysts and scholars nationwide.
It’s only fitting that educators and academic institutions now acknowledge Wike’s impact, with the University of Port Harcourt recently conferring upon him an honorary Doctorate for his contributions to the study of Power Politics and Political Dynamics. This is consistent with global traditions of recognizing trailblazers whose groundbreaking ideas warrant scholarly attention—think of luminaries like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Aminu Kano, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, whose methods are now staples in political thought.
Such academic recognition underscores the necessity to study emerging political methodologies, always seeking better solutions in our evolving society.
The University of Port Harcourt deserves credit for being at the vanguard of this movement. But why stop there? Following the example set by the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE)—which recently awarded distinguished lawyers the title of Professor of Law Practice—Wike could be honoured with a Professor of Practice in Politics title, acknowledging his pragmatic reshaping of Nigeria’s political reality.
FUOYE’s recognition of notable legal practitioners such as Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), and Toland Otaru (SAN) signals a trend. Wike deserves a similar accolade in political practice.
Let’s examine some of the remarkable maneuvers that have made Wike a textbook example of power brokering. Among his most memorable feats was his pivotal role in the 2023 presidential race, where he thwarted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s long-standing presidential ambition. After years of attempts, Atiku’s path seemed clear; however, a fallout with Wike ensured that, much like Moses in the Bible, Atiku saw the Promised Land but could not enter.
How did Wike pull this off? By leading the influential G5 group—five key PDP governors—away from Atiku’s campaign, he effectively shifted the balance of power. As a result, political dynamics in Rivers State changed dramatically, with Wike backing APC candidate Bola Tinubu, defying expectations and party loyalties. He mobilized support across regional lines, even going so far as to persuade prominent PDP figures like Chief Olabode George to withhold endorsement of Atiku, their own party’s nominee.
Wike’s savvy wasn’t limited to the presidential race. He ensured the PDP maintained the governorship in Rivers State, but later reshaped the state’s House of Assembly, enabling APC sympathizers to gain influence. Despite his PDP affiliation, Wike holds considerable sway over the state’s APC machinery—a testament to his cross-party influence.
Today, the lawyer-turned-politician from Rumuodoli stands as the first southerner and opposition figure to hold the highly coveted position of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—a unique accomplishment.
Wike’s strategic prowess is further spotlighted by his ongoing ability to simultaneously influence both major parties: he commands authority in the APC as an FCT Minister while remaining a central power broker within the PDP, retaining loyalists across the party’s national and state executive councils.
His approach to power politics blends pragmatism with a sense of justice—aiming for equity and fairness rather than mere self-interest. These qualities set him apart from the nation’s traditional political elite, who often prioritize personal gain over national welfare.
This progressive mindset was obvious during Wike’s tenure as Rivers State governor. Eschewing the old selfish order of governance, he implemented transformative infrastructural projects, earning national recognition—and a prestigious award—from then-President Muhammadu Buhari, a member of the rival APC.
Wike’s innovative methods challenge the status quo, proving that Nigerian conservative politics can have a human face. His version of progressivism signals a shift that has left established political players reeling, forcing a rethink of old tactics.
For politicians like Atiku and Obi seeking to revitalize their political trajectories, there are lessons to learn from the “Wikeism” approach. His pragmatic, results-driven strategies can serve as a roadmap for those aiming to thrive in today’s complex political climate.
Just as the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi was honored by students at Obafemi Awolowo University as the “Senior Advocate of the Masses,” this writer now bestows upon Chief Nyesom Wike the honorary title of Professor of Political Practice.
Professor Wike, my hat is off to you!
For more insights, continue reading at www.guardian.ng
Fanoro is a journalist and serves as the National President of the Congress of Good Governance for Nation Building (COGNB).
