Social critic Ifeanyi Ejiofor has lambasted the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for allegedly spending "hundreds of millions of naira monthly" on media chats, describing the expenditure as ostentatious and inappropriate amid the current economic hardship facing Nigerians.

In a press statement titled 'Extravagance in a time of hardship – President Tinubu must curb FCT Minister Wike's costly media show', Ejiofor, who previously served as lead counsel to the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), condemned what he termed as misplaced priorities in governance.

"It is quite regrettable that as millions of Nigerians battle record inflation, stagnant wages, and deepening poverty, Wike is indulging in such a misplaced priority," Ejiofor stated, describing the monthly media parley as a "tone-deaf misuse of public funds."

Better Use of Public Funds

Ejiofor highlighted that the funds spent on a single media edition could be redirected to more pressing needs, such as providing emergency relief for flood victims in Niger State, refurbishing deteriorating primary schools, equipping rural clinics, or supporting nutrition programs in IDP camps.

"The optics are disheartening. The implications are worse," he remarked, emphasizing that Nigerians desire competent governance and prudent spending rather than what he described as a "televised circus."

The social critic called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action by directing the FCT Minister to halt the allegedly wasteful spending and refocus on service delivery.

"This is not a time for flamboyance and fanfare. It is a moment that demands humility, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to the public good. Nigeria deserves better. The time to act is now," Ejiofor concluded.

The criticism comes at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with the effects of economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange policy changes, which have contributed to rising costs of living across the country.

As of the time of filing this report, Minister Wike has not responded to the allegations regarding the cost of his media engagements.