A heated political exchange has erupted between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, following accusations leveled by the latter. Governor Mohammed accused Wike of orchestrating a witch-hunt against his administration, specifically pointing to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a terrorism financing charge against his Commissioner of Finance, Yakubu Adamu.

Governor Mohammed further alleged that Wike was behind the crises rocking Bauchi State, recalling an earlier threat by the minister to "put fire" in his state. He also claimed that Wike was utilizing federal agencies and political machinery to undermine his administration, while simultaneously criticizing Wike’s leadership style and questioned his spending patterns as the FCT Minister. Mohammed stated that Wike had become a central figure for internal conflicts within the Peoples Democratic Party.

In his defense, Governor Mohammed declared that he would not allow himself to be criminalized for refusing to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). As Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum, he asserted that the APC-led Federal Government was using state institutions and courts to persecute Nigerians who are not members of the APC. Mohammed made these statements after assenting to the 2026 budget and receiving an award of excellence as a Safety Ambassador by the Safety Institute of Nigeria, which he dedicated to Bauchi State. He expressed belief that divine intervention would absolve him of blame amidst what he described as political persecutions.

Responding sharply, Minister Wike dismissed Governor Mohammed's allegations during a rally in Rivers State, mockingly questioning why Mohammed would fight him if he truly believed Wike possessed such power. Wike advised Mohammed to confront his challenges directly instead of blaming others, stating, "If your state is clean, go there and clear yourself."

Wike recounted a previous incident where Mohammed attempted to impose a party leader in Rivers State, an action Wike warned against, pointing out that Mohammed now faces consequences as he "doesn’t have a party to bring his successor." He further challenged Mohammed, suggesting he should "go and rest" if he lacked the strength to handle the political situation. Wike clarified that his engagement with Mohammed was strictly at the level of party leadership and he had no interest in the affairs of Bauchi State.

Additionally, Wike countered Mohammed's criticisms regarding his FCT ministerial performance by questioning Mohammed's own record during his tenure as FCT minister from 2010 to 2015. Wike highlighted incomplete contracts and questionable land sales during Mohammed's time, contrasting it with his own administration's efforts to complete projects and the "widespread public approval" he claims to have garnered. He concluded by asserting his commitment to continue delivering results that earn "Nigerians singing our praises every day."