The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has denied claims that hidden groups or power brokers are controlling President Bola Tinubu’s government.

Wike made these remarks during the 2025 OAU Distinguished Personality Lecture held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where he was the main speaker.

According to Wike, President Tinubu is courageous and fully in control of his administration. He said there is no secret group or “cabal” running the government behind the scenes.

The minister also pointed out that previous Nigerian leaders, such as Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, did not have the courage to remove the petrol subsidy or fix the foreign exchange rates. Tinubu, however, took bold steps to make these changes.

Wike explained that if the fuel subsidy had not been removed, many people would still be benefiting from fuel subsidy corruption.

He admitted that Nigeria has faced many challenges over the 60 years since independence and that the country has not performed well. However, he believes Nigeria can still improve and become successful with the right leadership and governance.

The minister stressed the importance of rebuilding trust among Nigerians and strengthening the unity of the country’s diverse people. He believes that only through unity can Nigeria move forward.

Wike also urged Nigerians to work hard, stay focused, and be dedicated to building a better future for the country. He warned that the Nigeria everyone hopes for will not happen by chance but requires the sacrifice and effort of all citizens.

Addressing his critics, Wike said those calling for his removal as minister are wrong to doubt his ability to deliver results.

He also stated that those who owe ground rent in Abuja should pay their debts and reassured that this would not cause any problems.

The lecture was attended by notable figures including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Minister of Finance Wale Edun; former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; and Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom.