Wike Asset Probe: Tinubu Faces Pressure to Sack FCT Minister as APC Elders Rally Behind Fubara

By DocuNews Central | October 2025

The ongoing Wike Asset Probe has triggered new tension inside Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is now under mounting pressure to dismiss Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, following rising allegations of asset abuse and questionable land allocations.

At the same time, senior APC figures are reportedly urging Tinubu to realign with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who has gained popularity after breaking free from Wike’s political dominance. The controversy has become a national talking point, with many seeing it as a test of Tinubu’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Allegations That Sparked the #WikeAssetProbe

Over 50 civil society organizations (CSOs) have called for a thorough investigation into Wike’s alleged undeclared assets and possible abuse of office. They petitioned the EFCC, ICPC, and Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to examine Wike’s wealth and property records. (Arise News)

According to the groups, the allegations include dubious land allocations and luxury properties in Abuja and Florida, USA, allegedly linked to Wike’s family. The petitioners insist the Minister’s asset declarations must be reviewed to ensure compliance with Nigeria’s public service rules.

Wike, however, has rejected the accusations. He described them as “baseless and politically motivated,” claiming his opponents are bent on tarnishing his reputation. (Vanguard Nigeria)

The Florida Property Controversy

Adding international weight to the saga, activist Omoyele Sowore filed a petition in the U.S. state of Florida, urging authorities to seize assets allegedly linked to Wike’s children.

The properties, valued at over $6 million, were said to have been transferred through quitclaim deeds between 2021 and 2023. Sowore claimed the assets were not declared to Nigeria’s Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), suggesting possible money laundering or asset concealment. (Arise News)

While the claims remain under review, the story has fueled widespread outrage online under the viral hashtag #WikeAssetProbe, which continues to dominate social media trends.

Tinubu’s Dilemma: Loyalty vs. Leadership

President Tinubu now faces a difficult balancing act. On one hand, anti-corruption advocates want decisive action to prove his administration’s credibility. On the other, firing Wike could destabilize fragile political alliances within the APC, especially in the South-South region.

Political observers say Tinubu’s next move will define his Renewed Hope Agenda. Some advisers suggest dismissing Wike would project strength, while others warn that it could weaken the APC’s foothold in Rivers State.

A BusinessDay report revealed that Tinubu recently suspended Wike’s monthly press briefings and replaced him at the Council of State meeting, signaling possible discontent within the presidency. (BusinessDay)

Rivers State Crisis and the Fubara Factor

The political crisis in Rivers State continues to deepen. Once allies, Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara are now locked in a fierce power battle that has divided the state.

In early 2025, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers following violent confrontations between factions loyal to Wike and Fubara. The emergency rule was lifted in September 2025, but the rivalry has not subsided. (Reuters)

Political analysts believe Fubara has emerged as a symbol of resilience in the face of Wike’s political machinery. His growing grassroots support has caught the attention of key APC elders, who now see him as a possible bridge between the presidency and the South-South electorate ahead of the 2027 general election.

APC Elders Call for Realignment

According to multiple reports, including Signal NG and Nairaland, influential APC elders—some within the Lagos Governance Advisory Council (GAC)—are advising Tinubu to distance himself from Wike and form a strategic alliance with Fubara.

“The APC cannot afford internal scandals heading into 2027. The people are with Fubara, and the President should stand with the people.”

Although not yet officially confirmed, the reports suggest growing dissatisfaction with Wike’s combative style and its potential to damage the APC’s image nationally.

Public Perception and Online Reactions

The Nigerian public remains divided. Supporters of Wike insist he is being targeted because of his political influence, while critics argue that he represents the old politics of impunity that Tinubu promised to end.

Across X (formerly Twitter), thousands of users have joined the #WikeAssetProbe trend, demanding transparency and accountability. Others have expressed skepticism, noting that previous corruption scandals were never conclusively resolved.

Analysts at The Cable argue that if Tinubu fails to address the matter decisively, it could weaken public trust in his anti-corruption stance.

Fact Check Summary

Conclusion

The #WikeAssetProbe is not just another scandal — it’s a defining political moment. For Tinubu, it is the ultimate test of leadership. Will he act boldly against alleged corruption, or will politics outweigh accountability?

For now, Nigerians wait and watch. But one fact is clear — this controversy will shape both the political destiny of the South-South and the future image of the APC as the 2027 elections approach.

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