Wike: Tinubu Lacks Control Over State Revenue Spending

During a media parley in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on September 2, 2023, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, asserted that President Bola Tinubu does not have the authority to dictate how state governments and local councils allocate additional revenue generated from the removal of the fuel subsidy. Wike responded to comments made by former governor Peter Obi, arguing that Obi's criticisms were misdirected.

He emphasized that scrutiny should focus on the actions of state and local governments regarding their increased allocations rather than on the federal government's management of the funds. Wike pointed out a noticeable improvement in the financial conditions of many state governments since the subsidy removal, stating that administrations that previously struggled to meet basic obligations are now better positioned to fund infrastructure projects.

His remarks suggest a shift in the conversation towards accountability at the state level.