The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has joked that he would have to put “sellotape” over the mouth of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, if he were to appoint the former Rivers State governor to his government.
Adebayo made the remark while discussing the qualities he would consider when selecting members of his administration ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The SDP candidate was speaking about the importance of discipline and loyalty within a government, particularly when dealing with politically experienced figures who are known for speaking their minds.
According to Adebayo, Wike possesses qualities that could make him useful in government, but his outspoken nature could also create challenges for an administration.
He therefore used the “sellotape” remark humorously to illustrate the need to manage a strong-willed appointee who might be inclined to publicly express views that differ from those of the government.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State and current FCT minister, has remained one of the most prominent and outspoken figures in Nigerian politics.
His political influence has extended beyond Rivers, particularly since his role in the political disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party and his subsequent appointment to the Federal Executive Council by President Bola Tinubu.
Adebayo’s comments come as politicians increasingly position themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with various candidates outlining the kind of government they intend to establish if elected.
The SDP presidential candidate has been presenting himself as an alternative to the major political parties and has criticised what he regards as longstanding weaknesses in Nigeria’s political system.
He has argued that the country needs a government capable of taking firm decisions while also surrounding itself with competent people who can implement its policies.
His comments about Wike were therefore framed around the broader question of who should serve in government and how a president should manage powerful political personalities.
Wike is known for his forceful public statements and willingness to openly criticise political opponents and even people within his own political circle. His outspoken approach has frequently made him a central figure in political controversies.
Adebayo’s reference to this characteristic appeared intended to underline that appointing someone with Wike’s temperament would require a president who could maintain control over the administration.
Despite the humorous nature of the remark, the statement also reflects the intense political debate surrounding possible appointments and alliances ahead of the next presidential election.
The 2027 contest is already attracting attention from political parties and prominent figures, with candidates seeking to distinguish their proposed administrations from the current government and from previous administrations.
Adebayo has continued to campaign on the promise of a different approach to governance, emphasizing competence, accountability and the need to address Nigeria’s economic and social challenges.
The SDP candidate has also been critical of the political establishment and has positioned his party as an alternative to the All Progressives Congress and the major opposition formations.
His latest comments come at a time when politicians are also debating the possibility of alliances and strategic cooperation ahead of 2027.
With the election still ahead, discussions about potential cabinet members and political appointments remain largely hypothetical. Candidates are expected to continue using campaign appearances and interviews to explain how they would form their governments and the personalities they would be willing to work with.
For Adebayo, the remarks about Wike provided an opportunity to combine humour with his broader argument that political office holders must be able to work within the discipline and direction of a government.
The SDP candidate’s comments are likely to add to the growing political conversation about the personalities who could play important roles in Nigeria’s next administration if there is a change of government in 2027.
