Wike Justifies Foreign Travels with Sons, Says They Need “Exposure”
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has firmly responded to the public criticism over his decision to take his sons on official foreign trips, stating that no law in the Nigerian Constitution prohibits him from doing so.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, the former Rivers State governor asserted his right to travel with anyone he chooses. He defended the practice by stating that his sons, both holders of master’s degrees, require the exposure to learn about governance and how Nigeria functions.
“What law says that my sons shouldn’t travel? Let the FCT say where they paid ₦1,” Wike challenged his critics. He clarified that his sons were not involved in any official government business, asking, “What official matter? Did they sign any document?… I can travel with anybody in Nigeria. I have that right.”
Emphasizing the educational value, he added, “They have to know how Nigeria is. They have to learn about government.”
However, Wike was quick to dispel any notion that he was grooming his children for a future in politics. He revealed their chosen career paths, with his first son opting for farming and his second son focusing on real estate.
The Minister expressed pride in his sons’ responsible behavior, contrasting them with wayward children. “I’m so happy that I have children who have given me comfort… Assuming they were somewhere smoking. You would have said, ‘Oh, look at these children now.’”
