Wike Responds to Amaechi, Says Respect Is Earned, Not Demanded

Wike responds to Amaechi in a fiery interview following accusations from the former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, who claimed that Nyesom Wike does not give him the respect he deserves.

Amaechi, also a former governor of Rivers State, had publicly challenged Wike to a walk from Abuja to Port Harcourt as a popularity contest, while questioning his former ally’s perceived lack of regard.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television on Friday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, did not hold back. In direct terms, Wike responds to Amaechi by emphasizing that respect is earned through character and integrity, not granted based on age or political hierarchy.

“You earn respect through integrity and honour, not because you are 200 years old,” Wike stated. “It is unfair for him to say he is my senior and expect that alone to command respect.”

This latest exchange adds fuel to the long-standing rivalry between the two political heavyweights from Rivers State, who were once political allies. Their relationship, however, has deteriorated over the years into a public power struggle.

Wike responds to Amaechi by making it clear that political seniority does not entitle anyone to automatic deference, especially in the absence of integrity. This public confrontation underscores the widening rift between both men, highlighting deep political and personal differences that continue to shape Rivers politics.