Abuja, January 24, 2026 – SUNTV Global
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is facing public scrutiny after celebrating his son’s graduation from King’s College London, a move critics say contradicts his longstanding stance against Nigerians pursuing foreign degrees.
Social media erupted after Wike shared photos and congratulatory messages for his son, Joaquin Wike, who recently earned a Master’s degree in Management and Technology Change. The celebration comes years after a 2015 interview aired on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, where Wike, then Governor of Rivers State, criticized Nigerians who studied law abroad. He argued that certain courses—particularly law—should be pursued within Nigeria, insisting that public funds should not finance overseas education when similar programs are available locally.
Critics quickly highlighted what they describe as hypocrisy, pointing out that during his tenure as Rivers State Governor, Wike discontinued the foreign scholarship scheme established by his predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi. The move reportedly forced students abroad to return home prematurely, leaving families financially and emotionally strained.
Charles Jaja, a youth activist based in Port Harcourt, called Wike’s actions “hypocritical in all ramifications.” He said, “Years back, former Governor Wike pulled Rivers children studying abroad, claiming it was a waste of state funds. Today, he celebrates his own son’s foreign graduation. Is this not hypocrisy?”
The controversy has been amplified by timing: Wike’s attendance at his son’s graduation coincided with an ongoing indefinite strike by Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) workers. The Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) shut down government offices in Abuja over unpaid wages, delayed promotions, non-remitted pensions, poor working conditions, and alleged staff intimidation. Despite the strike, Wike traveled to London and shared the milestone on Facebook, writing:
“Grateful to God for giving me, my wife and children the opportunity to be available to share with my son, Joaquin, his moment of joy as he earned MSc Degree in Management and Technology Change at King’s College London today.”
Wike’s entourage included notable political figures such as Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, and PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South) Chief Dan Orbih.
Meanwhile, in Abuja, legal proceedings continue as the FCTA seeks to restrain striking union leaders from picketing and shutting down offices. The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) has adjourned the hearing to January 26, 2026.
The minister’s actions have reignited debates over fairness, governance, and the privileges of political elites versus ordinary Nigerians, particularly students whose dreams of studying abroad were cut short under Wike’s previous policies.
