FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Defends Flying Sons To UAE, Rejects Criticism Of Using Public Funds For Trip [VIDEO]

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to widespread criticism following his decision to travel with his two sons to the United Arab Emirates for an official engagement. Many Nigerians had taken to social media accusing him of misusing public funds by including his children, who hold no government positions, in the delegation.

Wike was part of the Nigerian delegation that attended the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayor’s Forum in Dubai. Pictures of the Minister’s sons, Jordan and Joaquin, appearing alongside officials at the international event sparked outrage, as several Nigerians described the move as insensitive and unnecessary. Critics argued that public office holders should draw a clear line between family affairs and official duties, emphasizing that taxpayer money must not be used for personal convenience.

Responding to the controversy during an interview on Channels Television, Wike dismissed the allegations as baseless and fueled by misinformation. He insisted that no government funds were spent on his sons’ travel and that he retains the right to be accompanied by anyone he chooses, whether family members or associates.

“What law says that my sons shouldn’t travel?” the Minister asked rhetorically during the interview. “Let the FCT Administration come out and show where one naira was paid for them. What official assignment are people even talking about? Did they sign any document? I can travel with anybody I want from the FCT or even from anywhere in Nigeria. I have that right. People should stop making baseless assumptions.”

Wike explained that his sons’ presence on the trip had nothing to do with government business. He described it as part of their exposure to international environments and governance structures, adding that there was nothing unusual about children learning from their parents’ work experiences. According to him, such opportunities can help the younger generation understand the dynamics of governance and international cooperation.

He stated, “They have to know how Nigeria is, they have to learn about government. I see nothing wrong with that. This idea of blowing everything out of proportion must stop. We cannot continue to act as if people’s children are not entitled to travel simply because their parent holds public office.”

Addressing speculation that he might be grooming his sons for political office, Wike quickly dispelled such claims. He said both young men had chosen their own career paths, and none had shown interest in following his political trajectory.

“My first son is a lawyer,” he said. “He told me he doesn’t want to practise law; instead, he wants to become a farmer. I asked him why, and he explained that it was his passion. I respected that. They have attended training sessions in Spain and Lisbon to prepare for their chosen fields. My second son finished from King’s College with a master’s degree in Economics. He is pursuing a career in real estate. So, nobody should suggest that I am grooming them for politics. That is far from the truth.”

Wike further expressed pride in his children, describing them as disciplined, focused, and a source of joy to him and his family. He maintained that critics should focus on his performance as Minister rather than his personal choices as a father.

“I am proud of my children because they have given me peace of mind,” he said. “They are responsible and well-behaved. If they were involved in negative things like smoking or causing trouble, the same people would criticize me for raising them poorly. Now that they are doing well, they still find reasons to complain. I cannot travel with my enemy’s children; naturally, I will travel with mine.”

The Minister’s remarks have continued to generate mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some supporters agree with his defense, emphasizing that family members of public officials are entitled to personal privileges as long as no public funds are misused, others insist that the optics remain inappropriate. They argue that the presence of family members at official events sends a wrong message about accountability and transparency in governance.

Despite the ongoing debate, Wike appears unbothered, reiterating that his focus remains on delivering on his responsibilities as FCT Minister. He urged Nigerians to judge him by his results and not by assumptions fueled by social media controversies.

The controversy once again highlights the delicate balance between public duty and private life among Nigerian political leaders. It also underscores the growing scrutiny from citizens demanding higher standards of accountability from those entrusted with public office. For Wike, however, the matter seems settled in his mind; his sons’ presence in Dubai, he insists, was a family choice and not a misuse of government privilege.

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