In an open letter titled “Gov. Bala vs Wike: Let the truth be told”, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has shed light on the significant role played by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in the rise of Bala Mohammed to the governorship of Bauchi State in 2023.
Dogara’s remarks come amid a public dispute between Wike and Mohammed regarding the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The former Speaker shared details of how Wike provided crucial support to Mohammed during the 2018 PDP gubernatorial primaries, ensuring the latter secured the party’s ticket.
According to Dogara, when there was uncertainty about Mohammed’s chances of winning the primaries, Wike’s intervention was pivotal. Dogara revealed that he turned to Wike for help, and in response, Wike mobilized resources, including a private jet, to facilitate the process. Wike’s support extended beyond logistics, with the former governor shouldering the financial costs associated with the exercise.
Despite his assistance, Dogara expressed his shock when, after securing the PDP ticket, Mohammed was unable to fund his campaign. The former Speaker recounted that despite efforts to raise funds, the amount raised was insufficient. As a result, he and other party leaders turned to Wike once again for support.
In a telling account, Dogara recalled an encounter with Wike at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where the relationship between Wike and Mohammed was tense due to past grievances. Wike recounted how Mohammed had previously slighted him during their time as ministers in President Goodluck Jonathan’s cabinet, even withholding land allocations from him. Wike made it clear that he was unwilling to help until he was assured of Mohammed’s remorse.
Despite their rocky past, Wike ultimately extended his support, providing significant financial assistance to bolster Mohammed’s campaign. Wike’s generosity also included offering a private jet to transport the delegation back to Abuja. Dogara emphasized that Wike’s support was given without any conditions or expectations of personal gain.
Dogara concluded by expressing his frustration at Mohammed’s ingratitude, reiterating that Wike’s contributions were crucial to the success of the 2023 gubernatorial election in Bauchi State.
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