Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, arguing that his alleged treatment of the judiciary makes him unsuitable for the position of Vice President.

Wike also accused the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) of abandoning its traditional defence of justice and the rule of law in favour of political interests.

The minister made the remarks on Wednesday during his monthly media briefing in Port Harcourt, where he urged Nigerians to examine the records of politicians seeking senior public offices.

Wike alleged that Amaechi had shut down courts in Rivers State during his tenure as governor and claimed the action contributed to a pregnant woman giving birth in prison.

“Rotimi Amaechi, who wants to be Vice President today, once shut down the courts in Rivers State and caused a pregnant woman to give birth in prison,” Wike said.

He also accused the NBA of becoming politically aligned, saying, “The Nigerian Bar Association has now taken sides politically. They are now a political party.”

On the 2027 presidential election, Wike said he would not support former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s bid to win the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Wike also dismissed reports that he planned to relocate from Abuja to Rivers State. He said his frequent visits were aimed at maintaining contact with residents and monitoring political developments ahead of the 2027 elections.

“It is not about relocating; it is about coming home to relate with the people and talk to them,” he said, adding that he could not rely solely on political associates in Abuja to tell him what was happening in the state.