Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (born December 13, 1964) is a notable Nigerian politician and lawyer whose career has been filled with both political influence and controversy. Currently serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) since August 2023. Wike’s political journey has left a significant imprint on Nigeria’s landscape.
Before his ministerial appointment, he served two terms as the Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023. Wike, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has been a key figure in southern Nigerian politics, but his career is equally marked by debates surrounding his actions, wealth, and the role of his family in his rise to power.
Early Life and Education of Nyesom Wike
Ezenwo Nyesom Wike was born in Rumuepirikom, Obio-Akpor, Rivers State, to a family from the Ikwerre ethnic group. He attended Government Secondary School, Eneka, before earning his Bachelor of Laws degree from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUT).
Wike later attended the Nigerian Law School in 1997, setting the stage for his future in law and politics. He also holds a Master of Arts degree in Political and Administrative Studies from RSUT, a testament to his commitment to education.
As of March 2025, Wike was honored with an honorary Doctorate in Law from the University of Calabar.
Nyesom Wike’s Political Career
Wike’s political career started in 1999 when he was elected as the Executive Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, a position he held for two terms. This early success marked the beginning of his political ascent.
In 2007, Wike was appointed Chief of Staff to Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State. However, his national prominence grew when President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him as Minister of State for Education in 2011.
By 2013, he was promoted to Federal Minister of Education, a post he held until stepping down in 2014 to run for governor of Rivers State in 2015.
Governorship and Legal Challenges
Wike won the 2015 gubernatorial election as the PDP candidate, defeating his rival, Dakuku Peterside of the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, his victory was challenged in court. The Election Petition Tribunal initially annulled his election, citing irregularities.
The ruling caused public outcry, with many accusing the judiciary of bias. Ultimately, the Supreme Court affirmed Wike’s victory, allowing him to serve as governor.
During his two terms as governor from 2015 to 2023, Wike’s administration focused heavily on infrastructure development, including major flyovers and road projects in Port Harcourt.
His government also made strides in education by making public primary and secondary education free, alongside providing free registration for students taking the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams.
Nyesom Wike’s Presidential Ambitions and PDP Fallout
In 2022, Wike made a bid for the presidential ticket of the PDP but lost to Atiku Abubakar, who became the party’s candidate for the 2023 elections. His loss, combined with the perceived neglect from the party leadership, led to a fallout between Wike and Atiku.
The rift deepened as Wike actively campaigned against Atiku’s candidacy during the presidential election. This political fallout led to Wike’s controversial role in the PDP, a party he had once championed.
Ministerial Appointment and Ongoing Controversies
In August 2023, despite his opposition to Atiku, President Bola Tinubu appointed Wike as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). His appointment raised eyebrows, given that he remained with the PDP while working under an APC-led administration.
Wike’s time as Minister has been marked by political maneuvering and continued influence, particularly in Abuja.
However, his tenure has also been clouded by accusations of land grabs and the demolition of properties, which he has justified as part of urban development. His controversial actions as governor, including demolishing several hotels in Rivers State under the pretext of enforcing COVID-19 regulations, have further fueled his contentious reputation.
Wike’s Political Influence and Controversy in Abuja
Wike’s appointment as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has not been without controversy. His direct influence over Abuja’s political environment, along with his high-profile disputes with various stakeholders, underscores his ongoing relevance in Nigerian politics.
There have been questions regarding his motivations and methods, especially regarding land seizures and demolitions under his jurisdiction. His relationship with fellow politicians, such as his bitter feud with Governor Sim Fubara, further demonstrates the complex dynamics of his political approach.
Wike family life – wife, son, daughter, and parents
Nyesom Wike is married to Suzette Eberechi Wike, a judge of the High Court of Rivers State.
The couple has three children together: two sons and a daughter —Jazmyne, Joaquin, and Jordan. His son, who recently graduated with an LLM (Master of Laws) degree, represents the next generation of the Wike family.
Wike is a family man who values his family above everything else.
He has often spoken about the importance of family and how it has helped him stay grounded amid his political career.
Wike’s parents played a significant role in his life.
His father, Reverend Inengite Nitabai Wike, was a primary school teacher, while his mother, Maureen Wike, was a businesswoman.
They instilled in him the values of hard work, honesty, and integrity, which have guided him throughout his life.
Wike net worth
Nyesom Wike net worth is estimated to be around $550 million.
He made his fortune through his successful law practice and investments in real estate and other ventures.
Wike is one of the wealthiest politicians in Nigeria, and his net worth is a reflection of his hard work and business acumen.
Houses and cars
Nyesom Wike is a man of taste and style. He is known for his love of luxury cars and has an impressive car collection that includes a Rolls Royce, a Bentley, and a Lexus LX570.
He also owns several houses across Nigeria, including a multi-million dollar mansion in Port Harcourt.
Wike state of origin
Nyesom Wike hails from Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. He is a proud Rivers man who has always been committed to the development of his state.
Wike’s love for his state is evident in his policies and initiatives, which have helped to transform Rivers State into a modern and prosperous state.
Nyesom Wike Salary as River State Governor
According to the Nigerian News Agency (NAN), Nyesom Wike’s salary as Rivers State governor is ₦3,513,000 per month. At the same time, the current salary of the Governor of Rivers State is an annual salary of ₦486,000,000.00 with additional benefits and allowances.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
