“Why Spend So Much?” – Nyesom Wike Shares His Response When Offered an Honorary Award

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress recently honored Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in a grand ceremony that stirred significant reflections on leadership and representation.

During the event, broadcast on Channels Television, Wike delivered a candid speech about his initial reluctance to accept the honor and his concerns over the misrepresentation of the Ijaw people in the media.

Wike recalled his reaction when first approached about the honor: “When they asked me to be honored, I questioned the purpose. ‘Why waste so much money on this? I could use the money myself,’” he said, explaining his practical hesitation towards the expense of the event.

However, his perspective shifted after the organizers explained the importance behind the recognition. “They told me it’s not just about the honor,” Wike recounted. “There are people who claim to represent the Ijaw on television, but they don’t truly have the mandate of the people.”

Wike criticized the growing trend of individuals presenting themselves as spokespeople for the Ijaw community without proper authority or backing, particularly in the media. He pointed out that these self-appointed voices often rush to national platforms without genuinely representing the Ijaw people. Ultimately, Wike decided to attend the ceremony to clarify the true leadership and representation of the Ijaw people, concluding, “I agreed to come so Nigerians could know the truth.”