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

Arise Television anchor Rufai Oseni has urged President Bola Tinubu to exercise caution in his political relationship with Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, warning that the former Rivers State governor could reveal sensitive details if their alliance eventually breaks down.

Oseni made the remarks on Thursday while reacting to Wike’s recent comments that he could become a major target of opposition politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, if Tinubu loses the 2027 presidential election.

Wike made the statement during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday. He also defended his decision to support Tinubu’s re-election bid despite remaining a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking on Arise Television’s The Morning Show, Oseni questioned why Wike would be worried about a possible “witch-hunt” if he believed his political actions had been justified.

“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.

He linked Wike’s concern to the former governor’s role in the 2023 election, alleging that Wike used his influence as Rivers State governor to prevent Atiku from campaigning effectively in the state.

Oseni also raised questions about Wike’s reference to Peter Obi, pointing to claims surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV) during the 2023 presidential election. He argued that Wike should have no reason to fear political retribution if he remained confident in the decisions he made while in office.

Turning his attention to Tinubu, Oseni warned that the President could face political embarrassment if his relationship with Wike deteriorates.

He argued that Wike had previously fallen out with political allies and associates and could potentially speak publicly about his dealings with Tinubu if their relationship ended.

“The day he quickly falls out with President Tinubu, this Wike will talk, and he will talk very well,” Oseni said.

The broadcaster therefore urged Tinubu to ensure that whatever political arrangements exist between him and Wike would withstand public scrutiny.

Oseni also recalled Wike’s previous criticism of political godfatherism during the 2018–2019 political crisis involving then Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Tinubu, noting the apparent contrast between those comments and Wike’s current political alignment with the President.

He said some individuals who were once close to Wike had eventually fallen out with him, urging Tinubu to be mindful of the potential consequences of their political partnership.

Wike’s strained relationship with Atiku dates back to the 2022 PDP presidential primary, where Atiku defeated the then Rivers State governor to secure the party’s presidential ticket. The fallout later became a major factor in the political divisions within the PDP ahead of the 2023 general election.