“There Is No Cabal in Tinubu’s Government” — Wike Says at OAU Lecture, Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has firmly dismissed widespread claims that a hidden cabal is controlling the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking during the 2025 Obafemi Awolowo University Distinguished Personality Lecture held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, on Thursday, June 5, Wike made it clear that President Tinubu is fully in charge of his government and that no secret group or cabal is dictating affairs behind the scenes.
“He has shown that he has the courage. Under Tinubu, there is nothing like cabal. This is a president that is in charge,” Wike declared boldly to the audience.
This statement directly addresses the long-standing concerns among Nigerians about “cabal politics” — the idea that unelected individuals or cliques operate behind the scenes to control national leadership. By saying that “there is nothing like cabal,” Wike is strongly asserting that President Tinubu’s leadership style is transparent, hands-on, and independent.
Wike Applauds Tinubu’s Political Courage
According to the FCT Minister, Tinubu’s decision to remove Nigeria’s long-standing fuel subsidy and unify the country’s multiple foreign exchange rates is evidence of the president’s boldness and willingness to do what others could not.
Wike pointed out that even past Nigerian presidents, including two of the country’s most well-known leaders — Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan — were unable to remove the controversial fuel subsidy or reform the forex market during their tenures.
“So many people would still be benefiting from fuel subsidy fraud had Tinubu not removed it,” Wike added, emphasizing that corruption was deeply rooted in the subsidy system.
The fuel subsidy has been a major topic of debate in Nigeria for years. While it was originally introduced to make petrol more affordable for ordinary Nigerians, it gradually became a source of massive corruption and mismanagement. Experts have estimated that trillions of naira were lost to subsidy fraud. Wike praised Tinubu for finally pulling the plug on the policy — a move that, while initially painful for many citizens due to the hike in petrol prices, has long-term benefits for the country’s economy.
Fuel Subsidy and Forex Unification: Risky but Necessary
By removing the subsidy and unifying the foreign exchange rates, Tinubu’s administration took what many economists describe as bold and necessary steps. In the past, Nigeria operated a dual forex system that created room for manipulation and arbitrage. Those with access to the official rate were able to buy dollars cheaply and sell at much higher black market prices, further worsening the nation’s economic inequality.
Wike’s comments support the view that bold leadership is required to dismantle policies that no longer serve the country’s best interests.
His public endorsement of these reforms also suggests a level of unity and loyalty within Tinubu’s cabinet — a message aimed at silencing rumors that key ministers and appointees are working at cross-purposes or driven by personal interests.
Nigeria at a Crossroads: Wike’s Message of Hope
While acknowledging Nigeria’s many challenges, Wike used his platform at the OAU lecture to deliver a message of hope and national renewal. He stated that although Nigeria has underperformed in the six decades since independence, the country still has the potential to rise to greatness.
“Though Nigeria has underperformed in the last six decades since independence, and all imaginable fault lines are cracking, the nation can still rise and blaze in glory if the right governance frameworks are put in place,” he said.
Wike emphasized the need for rebuilding trust between the people and their leaders, as well as strengthening unity in diversity. His words touched on the importance of nation-building and civic responsibility.
“The desired Nigeria won’t fall from heaven but will require the vision, sacrifice, hard work and purpose of all citizens. Let us leave for the next generation to resolve and not regret,” he advised.
This part of his speech appeared to be a call to action — not only for political leaders, but for every Nigerian citizen to take personal responsibility for the progress of the country. According to Wike, patriotism, sacrifice, and cooperation are the keys to ensuring a brighter future.
Wike Fires Back at Critics: “Something Is Wrong With Them”
In a more personal part of his speech, Wike addressed those calling for his removal as FCT Minister. He did not hold back, calling out critics who question his capacity and competence in handling his ministerial duties.
“Something is wrong with those who claimed I lacked the capacity to deliver,” Wike said sharply.
This remark appears to be aimed at political opponents and detractors who have criticized his performance in Abuja since he assumed office. Wike has been a controversial figure in Nigerian politics, known for his blunt manner and combative political style. But he remains one of the most visible and vocal members of Tinubu’s cabinet.
As FCT Minister, he has been actively involved in urban renewal projects and infrastructure upgrades in Abuja. Still, some have accused him of being too aggressive or politically divisive. His comments at OAU suggest that he is unfazed by such criticisms and remains confident in his abilities to deliver results.
Why This Matters for Nigeria's Political Future
Wike’s lecture at OAU comes at a time when Nigeria is facing economic hardship, rising inflation, and widespread frustration over the direction of the country. Many Nigerians are still skeptical of the fuel subsidy removal and the forex reforms due to the immediate economic impact these decisions have had on ordinary citizens.
However, the FCT Minister’s strong defense of the Tinubu administration could help reinforce public trust in the president’s vision. By asserting that there is no cabal, and by praising the president’s boldness, Wike positions Tinubu as a leader who is willing to make tough choices for the greater good.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
Minister Nyesom Wike’s speech at the 2025 OAU Distinguished Personality Lecture was not just a defense of President Tinubu’s policies — it was also a broader message about courageous leadership, national unity, and citizen participation in governance.
He tackled tough issues — from the lingering ghost of cabalism to the controversial removal of fuel subsidy — and delivered a clear message: Nigeria’s future depends on bold decisions, unified leadership, and the active involvement of every Nigerian.
Whether or not one agrees with Wike, his message is clear: Now is the time for action, not excuses.
