Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to criticisms over his decision to travel with his two sons, Jordan and Joaquin, to the United Arab Emirates for an official engagement.
The backlash followed the Minister’s appearance at the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayor’s Forum in Dubai, where his sons were seen with members of the Nigerian delegation.
Many Nigerians had accused Wike of wasting public funds and involving his children in government activities despite them not being officials.
Wike insists he broke no law
Speaking during an interview, Wike maintained that he did nothing wrong by taking his sons along, insisting he has the right to travel with whomever he chooses.
He challenged critics to provide evidence that the Federal Capital Territory Administration funded his sons’ trip, stressing that no law forbids them from joining him.
“What law says that my sons shouldn’t travel? Did they sign any document? It doesn’t have to be a personal trip. They have to know how Nigeria works,” he said.
Says his sons chose their own careers
When asked if he was preparing his sons for political roles, the former Rivers State governor dismissed the suggestion.
Wike explained that his first son studied law but chose to go into farming, while his second son holds a master’s degree in Economics and is pursuing a career in real estate.
He expressed pride in their discipline and conduct, saying, “I’m happy I have children who have given me comfort and not problems. I won’t travel with my enemy’s children.”