Lere Olayinka, the spokesperson for the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticized Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State for raising what he called a “shamefully baseless” security alert.

Olayinka, who serves as Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, accused Governor Diri of using the security claim as an excuse for his failures in governance.

The controversy began when Governor Diri warned about a planned mega rally in Bayelsa, supposedly organized by a group loyal to Wike. However, Olayinka dismissed the claim, stating that holding rallies is a fundamental right and that the governor should not be afraid of people showing support for Wike.

Olayinka further argued that if Wike intended to attend any rally in Bayelsa, he would personally inform security agencies, making the governor’s alarm unnecessary. He mocked Diri for holding Security Council and Elders Council meetings over mere speculation.

He also recalled how Governor Diri once sought Wike’s support for his re-election, even kneeling before him for help. Now, according to Olayinka, the same Diri is trying to discredit Wike to hide his own failures.

The heated exchange highlights growing political tension, with Wike’s supporters standing firm against what they see as an attempt to undermine him.