In a recent Facebook post, political commentator and former presidential aide Reno Omokri took aim at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, offering advice on political strategy and self-restraint. Alongside a photo of Wike and Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, Omokri’s detailed caption served as both a critique and a word of caution to Wike, urging him to control his public image and adopt a more strategic approach to his political maneuvering.
Omokri’s post reads:
“Wike puts too much of his cards on the table. If you want to know his plans, just provoke him to give an interview, and he will blab and brag. Keep some things to yourself. Be strategic instead of bombastic. Now, Fubara knows everything you plan to do from watching your interview with Seun. Thus, he is better placed to forestall you. A lion that makes noise while hunting will catch nothing.”
In this critique, Omokri highlighted what he sees as Wike’s tendency to reveal too much in interviews, making himself vulnerable to political opponents like Governor Fubara. He advised Wike to be more circumspect, comparing him to a lion that makes noise while hunting—ultimately scaring away the prey. According to Omokri, Wike’s public interviews could provide his adversaries with insights into his plans, allowing them to thwart his political moves.
Omokri’s concerns extend beyond Wike’s public disclosures. He criticized Wike for giving more interviews than even the presidential spokesman, stating, *“As Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Wike has given more interviews than the Presidential spokesman. Why? A wise man speaks because he has something to say, not because he wants to say something.”* Omokri argued that Wike’s frequent public appearances could alienate him from his colleagues, much like former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, whose outspoken nature led to his falling out with President Goodluck Jonathan and other key figures.
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| Reno Omokri |
This cautionary tale reminds Wike of the pitfalls of excessive talk, warning that history could repeat itself if he fails to heed the lesson. Omokri believes that speaking too often or revealing too much could make Wike vulnerable, not only to his political enemies but also to his allies, who may distance themselves due to his unchecked emotions and statements.
One of the most intriguing parts of Omokri’s post was his comparison between Wike and the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Omokri praised Tinubu’s strategic approach in handling former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, noting how Tinubu successfully replaced him with Babajide Sanwo-Olu without public fanfare. Omokri wrote, *“Learn from your boss. How many times did Asiwaju publicly talk about his plans to remove Ambode? We just woke up one day, and Sanwo-Olu won the gubernatorial primaries. Secrecy and surprise are vital in war and politics.”*
Here, Omokri offers Wike a roadmap for political survival: move from talking about plans to quietly executing them. In politics, silence can often be more powerful than speech. By keeping plans close to the chest, a politician maintains the element of surprise, which Omokri believes is critical to outmaneuvering opponents.
Omokri also emphasized emotional discipline, advising Wike to control his emotions rather than letting them control him. *“Wike, control your emotions instead of allowing them to control you. Too much talk is what destroyed your predecessor, Rotimi Amaechi. It alienated him from the then President and his cabinet colleagues. Do not repeat history then accuse history of repeating itself.”*
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| FCT Minister. Nyesom Wike |
This is not the first time Wike’s emotional outbursts have made headlines. Known for his fiery demeanor and candid interviews, Wike has both attracted and repelled allies due to his unfiltered approach. Omokri’s message suggests that while this boldness may have served Wike in the past, it may now be a liability in his new role as FCT Minister. In the high-stakes arena of national politics, emotional restraint can often be the difference between success and failure.
Omokri concluded his post with a final piece of advice, recommending that Wike start playing chess regularly to learn the power of silent contemplation. *“My counsel to Wike is this: Start playing chess regularly. It will teach you the power that exists in silent contemplation!”*
Chess, often regarded as a metaphor for politics, teaches players to think multiple steps ahead, plan strategically, and remain patient before making a move. Omokri’s advice to Wike is clear: think like a chess player, and learn to master the art of quiet strategy. In politics, as in chess, those who reveal their moves too early risk losing the game.
Reno Omokri’s public counsel to Nyesom Wike offers a sobering reminder of the importance of political caution and emotional discipline. While Wike’s outspoken nature has earned him respect and visibility, Omokri warns that it could also be his downfall if not properly managed. In a political landscape where strategy and secrecy are key, Wike must adapt his approach to maintain his influence and outsmart his opponents.
By embracing silence, strategic thinking, and emotional control, Wike can not only secure his place as FCT Minister but also strengthen his political legacy for years to come.
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