Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed disapproval of the way Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has insulted his former benefactors, including Peter Odili, former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, and Rotimi Amaechi, who Frank claims played a crucial role in Wike’s political ascent.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Frank, who is also the ULMWP Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, urged Wike to cease his derogatory remarks towards respected elders if he aspires to achieve a similar level of respect in the future.
Reacting to comments attributed to Wike, in which he allegedly criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Frank emphasized the importance of Wike regaining his sense of decorum and treating those deserving of respect with dignity, regardless of political differences.
The ULMWP Ambassador highlighted that disrespect should not be masked by political circumstances, adding, “Just because Wike appears older than his years doesn’t mean he belongs to the same age group as Peter Odili, Uche Secondus, and others he seems to enjoy belittling.”
Frank acknowledged Wike’s aspirations to reach the age of 80 and beyond but cautioned that if he continues his current pattern of disdain and disrespect towards his elders, he will eventually face the consequences of his actions.
Furthermore, Frank urged Wike to allow the people of Rivers State to thrive, criticizing him for attempting to create instability in the state. “Since leaving office as governor, he has not given Governor Fubara a moment’s peace, thereby hindering the state’s development,” he stated.
Lastly, Frank suggested that Wike consider hiring a speech therapist to refine his public speaking skills, advising him to avoid being overly verbose and to communicate more effectively.