Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, saying leadership requires the courage and capacity to confront challenges rather than avoid them.
Speaking on the qualities of effective leadership, Wike argued that leadership is not about seeking comfort or moving from one platform to another whenever difficulties arise.
According to him, true leaders are defined by their ability to withstand pressure, overcome obstacles and remain committed to their convictions even in challenging circumstances.
“Leadership is not a ‘Mama Put’ where food is already prepared and waiting for you,” Wike said, stressing that leadership demands resilience, determination and the ability to face challenges head-on.
The former Rivers State governor cited his experience in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), recalling how he remained in the party despite political disagreements and the influence of powerful governors.
Wike said that although some political heavyweights attempted to dominate the party, he chose to stay and fight rather than leave, adding that those who sought to exert pressure eventually departed while he remained.
According to him, the willingness to confront challenges rather than run from them is one of the defining attributes of leadership.
“Leadership is about having the capacity to face challenges. It is not something that is handed over to anyone on a platter,” he said.
His remarks are the latest in a series of political exchanges involving leading figures ahead of ongoing political realignments and preparations for future elections.
