Rufai Oseni Warns Tinubu Over Wike, Says ‘He Will Talk’ If Political Alliance Collapses

Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni has urged President Bola Tinubu to be cautious in his political dealings with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, warning that the former Rivers State governor could publicly reveal details of their relationship if they eventually fall out.

Oseni made the remarks on Thursday during Arise Television’s The Morning Show, while reacting to Wike’s recent comments about the possibility of being targeted by opposition figures if Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election.

Wike, speaking during a media chat in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, said he could become a major target of politicians such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi if Tinubu fails to secure a second term. He also defended his decision to support Tinubu despite remaining a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Oseni questioned why Wike was concerned about a possible political “witch-hunt” if he believed his past actions were justified. He specifically referenced Wike’s role in the 2023 presidential election and his opposition to Atiku campaigning in Rivers State.

“So why is Mr Wike afraid today? Why is he afraid that if Atiku Abubakar gets in, he’s going to be witch-hunted?” Oseni asked, while also questioning why Wike believed Obi could target him.

The broadcaster then turned his attention to Tinubu, warning that Wike’s history with former political allies should make the President cautious. Oseni argued that if the relationship between the two men breaks down, Wike could speak openly about matters that are currently kept within their political circle.

“You see, for all of those that do things with him, in all of this, the person I pity the most, and I have a very great pity for, is President Tinubu,” Oseni said. “The day he quickly falls out with President Tinubu, this Wike will talk, and he will talk very well.”

Oseni also recalled Wike’s previous criticism of political godfatherism, including comments he made during the political dispute involving former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Tinubu. He said the contrast between Wike’s past position and his current alliance with Tinubu should be closely watched.

Wike has remained at odds with Atiku since the 2022 PDP presidential primary, which Atiku won ahead of the then Rivers State governor. The rivalry has continued to shape Wike’s political positioning, including his decision to remain in the PDP while supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid.