The ongoing political feud between former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has taken a new turn with the intervention of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara. Dogara, in a detailed statement, revealed the extent of Wike’s financial and logistical support for Mohammed’s gubernatorial campaign, painting a picture of stark contrast to Mohammed’s recent public criticisms of Wike. Dogara’s narrative positions Wike as an instrumental figure in Mohammed’s political ascent, raising questions of ingratitude and betrayal in light of the governor’s recent attacks.
Dogara recounts the 2018 PDP gubernatorial primaries in Bauchi State, a period when Mohammed’s campaign faced significant challenges. Facing a strong opponent in Senator Abdul Ningi, who controlled the state party structure, Mohammed’s team turned to Wike for assistance. Wike, according to Dogara, readily agreed to help, installing his close ally, Chief Dan Orbih, as the chairman of the primaries panel and even providing a private jet for Orbih’s travel to and from Bauchi. Wike’s actions, Dogara emphasizes, were unconditional and bore all expenses associated with the primaries, a point he raises to counter the narrative of Wike as a transactional politician.
The story continues with the revelation of Mohammed’s financial struggles after securing the party’s nomination. Despite promising to sponsor all party candidates, Mohammed reportedly lacked the funds to finance his own campaign. A fundraising event organized by Dogara and other stakeholders yielded a meager sum, leaving the campaign in dire straits. Once again, they turned to Wike for help. Dogara describes a tense encounter in Port Harcourt, where Wike initially expressed his displeasure at Mohammed’s presence, revealing past grievances related to land allocation during their time as ministers under President Jonathan.
Wike, however, ultimately agreed to assist, providing substantial financial aid and logistics, including a private jet for their return to Abuja. Dogara highlights Wike’s magnanimity, noting the lack of conditions or demands attached to his support. This account of Wike’s generosity stands in stark contrast to Mohammed’s recent accusations of Wike being a transactional politician. Dogara’s detailed recollection of events, including the presence of two serving senators who could corroborate his claims, adds weight to his narrative.
The contrast between Mohammed’s past praise of Wike and his current criticisms further underscores Dogara’s point about betrayal. He recalls Mohammed’s previous acknowledgement of Wike’s courage, focus, and competence, describing him as someone capable of salvaging Nigeria. This past admiration serves as a stark counterpoint to Mohammed’s recent labeling of Wike as a serial betrayer and a threat to the PDP. Dogara suggests that Mohammed’s current stance is not an isolated incident, referencing other instances of alleged betrayal, including that of his godfather, Alhaji Bello Kirfi.
Dogara’s intervention adds a new dimension to the Wike-Mohammed feud. By meticulously detailing Wike’s past support, he challenges the narrative being presented by Mohammed and raises questions about the governor’s motives. The timing of Dogara’s statement, amidst the escalating public exchanges between the two governors, suggests a deliberate attempt to reshape the narrative and expose what he perceives as ingratitude and betrayal. The former Speaker’s detailed account, including specific events, dates, and the presence of potential witnesses, lends credibility to his claims and puts pressure on Mohammed to respond.
Ultimately, Dogara’s intervention transforms the Wike-Mohammed feud from a simple exchange of barbs into a complex story of political maneuvering, financial dealings, and alleged betrayal. The public now has access to two contrasting narratives, leaving them to decide which version of events holds more weight. The fallout from Dogara’s revelations is likely to further complicate the already strained relationship between Wike and Mohammed and could have broader implications for the PDP, particularly given Mohammed’s position as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. This public airing of internal party dynamics could further exacerbate existing tensions within the PDP.
