Several reports in the media claiming that Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, collapsed during a high-level meeting in Abuja have been debunked as false.
The viral reports alleged that Wike suffered a partial stroke due to excessive alcohol consumption and was urgently flown to France for medical treatment.
However, Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, dismissed these claims as “fake news.”
“There is no need to respond to unfounded rumours,” Olayinka stated.
Social media posts, including one from an X user identified as @ahanaelroi, suggested that Wike’s condition was critical and that he might not regain full mobility.
Additionally, a source in Rivers State allegedly told an Instagram blog that Wike’s health was in grave danger.
These claims quickly gained traction online, sparking widespread speculation.
Despite these reports, an independent investigation by National Insight confirmed that Wike remained active in his ministerial duties on the alleged day of the incident.
According to verified sources, he was seen inspecting multiple projects across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Friday.
On the same day he was rumored to have collapsed, Wike was present at various project sites, including – the 15-kilometer left-hand service carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Wasa Junction.
The 16-kilometer Inner Northern Expressway (INEX) from Ring Road III to the Idu Industrial area, connecting the Kubwa/Zuba expressway ad the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal office complex in Dakibiu, Jabi District, and its access road.
Additionally, Wike received an Award of Recognition from the Body of Benchers in Abuja.
He later confirmed the event, stating, “Happy to have been honoured with an Award of Recognition by the Body of Benchers, during their courtesy visit to my office today.”
He further noted, “Members of the Body of Benchers were led by the Chairman, Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN). As a lawyer, I will not relent in contributing my quota to the advancement of the legal profession.”
As of now, there is no credible evidence to support claims of Wike’s collapse or his alleged medical emergency in France. The widely circulated reports appear to be misinformation. Further updates will be provided if new, verifiable details emerge.
