National anthem: Wike, Keyamo using public offices for political intimidation – Obi media office
The Peter Obi Media Office has slammed Ministers Nyesom Wike and Festus Keyamo, accusing them of using their positions in government to pursue partisan political interests and intimidate perceived political opponents.
The office described the ministers as political agitators who were allegedly turning the authority of their public offices into weapons for political confrontation rather than concentrating on their responsibilities to Nigerians.
The criticism was contained in a press statement issued on Sunday, November 15, 2026, and signed by Idris Zekeri Jnr. on behalf of the Peter Obi Media Office.
In the statement titled “Wike and Keyamo: Rabble-Rousers, Weaponising Public Office for Political Relevance,” the media office questioned the conduct of the two ministers, arguing that their actions raised concerns about the proper use of public authority.
It maintained that government positions were entrusted to public officials to serve the country and should not be converted into instruments for settling political scores or advancing personal ambitions.
The statement said, “Public office is not a personal possession, and government authority must never become a weapon for intimidating political opponents. Nigerians entrusted these responsibilities to their leaders to serve the nation, not to satisfy political egos or advance partisan interests.”
The media office further argued that ministers should distinguish between their constitutional responsibilities and personal political affiliations, stressing that holding a public position does not confer the authority to use state institutions for political battles.
It also faulted what it described as attempts to present partisan political attacks as evidence of patriotism.
According to the office, genuine patriotism should be measured by a leader’s commitment to national development, respect for the rule of law, accountability and the welfare of citizens rather than aggressive political statements or unquestioning support for an administration.
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“Patriotism is not about how loudly politicians attack their opponents or how aggressively they defend those in power. It is reflected in honesty, responsible leadership, respect for democratic principles and the willingness to put the interests of Nigerians above personal and political considerations,” the statement added.
The office also insisted that no individual, political party or government could claim exclusive ownership of patriotism, warning Nigerians against confusing loyalty to a political establishment with genuine commitment to the country.
It expressed concern that senior government officials were allegedly devoting considerable attention to political disagreements while millions of Nigerians continued to battle poverty, insecurity, unemployment and rising living costs.
The statement urged Wike and Keyamo to redirect their attention towards addressing the country’s pressing challenges, noting that Nigerians expected effective governance rather than persistent political confrontations.
It further warned that the misuse of public institutions could undermine democratic values and weaken public confidence in government, adding that those entrusted with public responsibilities must demonstrate restraint and remain accountable to the people.
“Public office comes with responsibility, not unlimited political authority. Positions held today are temporary, but the consequences of abusing public trust can affect the country for generations. Nigerians deserve leaders who respect democratic institutions and understand that their ultimate responsibility is to the people,” it stated.
The Peter Obi Media Office called for a political culture centred on service, national unity and accountability rather than intimidation and partisan hostility.
“Nigeria needs responsible public servants, not political combatants; nation-builders, not political enforcers. Patriotism must be demonstrated through meaningful service to the people, not manufactured through political propaganda,” the statement said.
The statement was signed by Idris Zekeri Jnr. and dated November 15, 2026.
