21st August, 2023
Michael Adeshina
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa raised a dust on Monday after he publicly congratulated Nyesom Wike on his Senate screening and appointment as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.
Earlier this year, Fintiri was accused of working against the presidential ambition of Atiku Abubakar – who many referred to as the governor’s political leader.
Despite that Atiku and Fintiri are from Adamawa, many alleged that the governor silently worked with the G5 governors led by Wike.
Atiku ended up winning Adamawa state, but his opponents Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi got a fair share of votes aswell.
Despite Atiku’s victory in Adamawa, the rumours continue to spread but Governor Fintiri seem unbothered.
The governor publicly congratulated Wike on Monday and also referred to him as ‘Your Excellency.’
In another part, Fintiri called Wike a friend and a brother.
Fintiri also created more shock waves among Atiku’s men as he noted that he is happy that Wike got the recognition he deserved from President Bola Tinubu’s government.
He added ‘AUF’ to the statement he posted on social media to confirm that he personally wrote and signed the statement.
The statement reads:
“Congratulations on your Senate screening and appointment as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja.
“Your Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike you have set precedence and demonstrated exemplary leadership traits by delivering service and good governance according to the people’s need during your tenure as Governor of Rivers State which I believe earned you this position.
“I trust that you will continue to work for improved growth and development of the FCT just like you did in Rivers State as Governor.
“I am confident that your influence will continue to encourage our proud tradition of hard work and dedication to country as well as involvement in worthwhile political causes.
“My brother and friend once more congratulations on your appointment. I know you have worked hard to reach this point, and I’m so happy that you have been recognized for your accomplishment with this new assignment. It is well-deserved – AUF”
The statement released by Fintiri was like a punch to the Atiku’s camp.
Many of the loyalists of the perennial PDP presidential candidate took to social media to attack Fintiri for showing support for ‘Atiku’s enemy.’
“Look at someone Atiku brought from grass to grace. Stood up for you to make sure you returned as Governor. I remember when Atiku asked me to stand down while I was going against you, supporting Binani. At this junction I’m beginning to fault Atiku. Enough of this nonsense,” Idris Kalgo angrily stated in reaction to Fintiri’s statement.
Hon Rilwan said: “You know the crazy part, he could do it privately but chose to bring it on Twitter to say there is nothing you all can do .The audacity though.”
Olalekan Badmus, a media aide to Governor Ademola Adeleke, also berated Fintiri for publicly congratulating Wike.
“Fintiri should have messaged Wike privately, can even chose to call him but man come TL come tag am for X, where he most likely won’t see it. Why?”