Why Nigerian universities should study how Wike joined Tinubu’s cabinet – Ooni

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged Nigerian universities to critically assess the political journey of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, especially his surprising inclusion in President Bola Tinubu’s administration despite being a prominent figure in the opposition Peoples Democratic Party.

Speaking on Thursday at the 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture hosted by Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, the traditional ruler expressed admiration for Wike’s ability to cross political divides, calling his appointment under an All Progressives Congress-led government a “mystery.”

“For your career, I will particularly say that I give a very strong honour to the father of the nation, President Bola Tinubu,” the Ooni said while addressing Wike, who delivered the keynote speech at the event.

“You belong to a different political party and yet are able to work together. You are part of this government. It is still a mystery. I don’t even know how it happened.

“For me, it is something that universities should be studying and I mean it. It’s very important.

“Hate him or like him, what will be, will be. He (Wike) is a politician to be studied. I don’t know how he’s been actively relevant for 20 years,” the monarch added.

Oba Ogunwusi noted that while Wike’s political approach may have drawn criticism in some quarters, his influence and determination remain widely acknowledged.