If I appoint Wike, I’ll put sellotape in his mouth – Adebayo
By Caleb Ayemere
Social Democratic Party presidential candidate Adewole Adebayo stated that if he were to appoint Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, he would metaphorically “put sellotape over [Wike’s] mouth” to limit his public statements.
Adebayo made his comments during an interview with Symfoni, where he addressed governance, the performance of the Tinubu administration, and recent political events, including the elections in Osun State.
He commended Wike for his strong work ethic and contributions to infrastructure development in the Federal Capital Territory but criticized his approach to public communication and what he sees as an excessive emphasis on force and state power.
“I respect Wike for his good work ethic. He can work,” Adebayo said, noting that previous FCT ministers have accomplished significantly less. He suggested that if state commissioners of works matched Wike’s output, Nigeria would see a marked improvement in its infrastructure.
While Adebayo acknowledged potential issues with inflated contracts and questioned the value for money under Wike’s projects, he affirmed that visible progress is being made. He stated that as an FCT resident, he has experienced improved travel and daily life due to ongoing projects.
Despite his praise, Adebayo characterized Wike as “a bad example for Nigerian politics” due to his heavy-handed use of state power. He expressed hope that Wike would come to understand the transient nature of power and that a civilized society is a preferable goal.
Adebayo urged media outlets to limit Wike’s exposure to matters outside the FCT, arguing that doing so undermines the dignity of his office. He advised Wike to focus exclusively on his official responsibilities and to offer support to President Bola Tinubu discreetly instead of through public displays.
The SDP candidate warned that Wike’s approach risks influencing a new generation to believe that democratic politics can be practiced through intimidation or aggressive rhetoric.
“If I were in my own government, I could appoint Wike, but I would use a little tape on his mouth,” Adebayo remarked.
He affirmed that Wike is the top-performing minister under President Tinubu and that much of the progress in the FCT is due to the minister’s active engagement.
Regarding broader governance issues, Adebayo accused the Tinubu administration of “intellectual dishonesty” and misrepresenting the significance of increased revenue figures while making poor choices in personnel. He specifically criticized the chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service for allegedly misleading the public with claims of improved FAAC allocations that overlook a decline in purchasing power.
On the recent Osun election, Adebayo acknowledged President Tinubu’s political acumen in managing internal conflicts within the APC. However, he rejected claims that the election outcome represented a model of democratic restraint or a genuine defeat of federal influence.
He expressed concern over the loss of lives during the election and noted the absence of a viable third-party challenge, as well as the ongoing support for the APC despite prevailing economic hardships.
Adebayo also denounced the presence of state governors who, he said, “invaded” Osun during the election, calling their conduct thuggish and unbecoming of individuals in high public office. He urged governors to maintain the dignity of their roles for the benefit of their constituents and warned against setting negative examples for young Nigerians.
The SDP candidate concluded that while he seeks competent individuals like Wike who deliver tangible results, public officials must also embody restraint and respect for democratic principles.
