The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has suggested that political scientists should study the phenomenon of how Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), became part of President Bola Tinubu's government despite being a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at the 2025 Obafemi Awolowo University Distinguished Personality Lecture in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where Wike delivered the keynote address, the monarch described the political arrangement as "a mystery" worthy of academic study.

A Unique Political Phenomenon

"For your career, I will particularly say that I give a very strong honour to the father of the nation, President Bola Tinubu. You belong to a different political party and yet are able to work together," the Ooni remarked, addressing Wike.

"You are part of this government. It's still a mystery; I don't even know how it happened. For me, it is something that universities should be studying and I mean it; it's very important," he added.

The traditional ruler further expressed admiration for Wike's political longevity, stating, "Hate him, like him; what will be, will be. He is a politician to be studied. I don't know how he's been actively relevant for 20 years."

Cross-Party Collaboration

Wike's appointment as FCT Minister by President Tinubu in 2023 raised eyebrows across Nigeria's political landscape. Despite being a prominent member of the opposition PDP, Wike has not only accepted the ministerial position but has also publicly pledged to lead Tinubu's reelection campaign in Rivers State.

This unusual cross-party collaboration has defied conventional Nigerian political alignments, where party loyalty typically dictates political associations and appointments.

"Nigeria is for all of us and you are playing your part and making history," the Ooni concluded, acknowledging Wike's unique position in the current political dispensation.

The lecture, which took place on Thursday, June 5, 2025, attracted numerous dignitaries and academics from across the country, highlighting the significant interest in this unusual political arrangement that continues to shape Nigeria's political landscape.