Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister, has been reportedly banned from Aso Rock, Nigeria’s seat of power, over alleged embarrassing scenes during the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
According to Jackson Ude, a Nigerian investigative journalist resident in the United States, Wike looked inebriated when he received Prime Minister Modi at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The visit was supposed to be a means of strengthening the ties between Nigeria and India; however, it took a different turn as the minister reportedly acted in a manner that left Modi uncomfortable.
In a social media post, Ude said Wike arrived at the airport “oozing from alcohol” and slurring his words. Wike had been scheduled to present the Indian leader with the ceremonial Abuja City Key, a symbol of hospitality and honor. After formally presenting the key to Modi and taking pictures, Ude said Wike tried to engage Modi in some conversations, apparently fumbling over his words in the process.
Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as tense, as both Nigerian and Indian security officials observed Modi’s visible discomfort. Security personnel reportedly intervened, swiftly escorting the Indian Prime Minister away from Wike as he continued to follow him toward the convoy. According to Ude’s report, the situation quickly reached Aso Rock, where top officials allegedly issued orders to bar Wike from accessing the presidential villa during Modi’s stay.
The alleged incident has elicited mixed reactions across Nigeria, with some citizens expressing disappointment over the perceived lack of professionalism, while others have called for a more thorough investigation before any conclusions can be made. For now, Wike has not commented publicly on the report.
An official word is yet to be obtained from the office of the President regarding this, and it is yet unclear if the said ban is but temporary, or if punitive actions are in the offing.
