Nigerians have reacted angrily to the exhibition of opulence and ostentation by the sons of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State.
Photos and videos shared from Instagram revealed Wike’s sons’ lavishing public funds on trips to different destinations worldwide. They were seen on private jets, casinos, top-rated nightclubs, expensive lounges and restaurants.
Netizens on X have said that the display smacks of insensitivity to the situation of the masses of Nigerians, especially those in Rivers and in Abuja, who live in dire circumstances, struggling to eke out a living under excruciating economic conditions.
They further argued that their lifestyle is a mark of irresponsibility and lack of responsiveness and empathy for the ordinary people whose living conditions are nothing to write home about.
An X user, @kehinde_bb, wrote, “Just saw Wike’s son’s IG and for the first time in a long time, I’m filled with hatred, rage and incredible sorrow. They bled our nation dry for that?? Our people are undereducated, underemployed, immigrating in droves, starving, dying, for what”
Another X user, @Steadi_lady said, “I see people praising Wike’s son for his extravagant lifestyle, with many rushing to follow him on Instagram. Some of you don’t know what you’ll eat today bcos of how politicians have ruined this country, yet you feel no resentment toward your oppressors &their children. Disgusting”
A lawyer, @TonyAtambi, noted that “Nyesom Wike started out as Chairman of Obio-Akpor LGA and was Chairman from 1999 – 2007. And he has been in government since then. Meaning that the ostentatious lifestyle of his kids are funded by resources belonging to the people and not his. It’s not “politics money”.
@medici__i wrote “Bro no jokes, there is nothing luxurious I didn’t see on that Wike son’s page. Think of anything luxurious in this life, that boy has experienced it. On public funds btw. We’re not ready”
Yet another X user, @RobinaxOg, observed that “Wike’s son IG is a discovery. Young lad just spends his time cosplaying and living like a hip hop star 24/7.”
As citizens wallow in poverty, Wike continues to spend the commonwealth on the acquisition of designer outfits, state-of-the-art automobiles, multi-million-dollar holiday packages, among others, for himself and his immediate family members.
