Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has launched a scathing attack on Arise Television host Reuben Abati, accusing him of becoming a spokesperson for former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise Television's Morning Show on Thursday, Olayinka made serious allegations against Abati, claiming the TV host had previously sought financial assistance from Wike during troubles with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Allegations of Hypocrisy

Olayinka's comments came after Abati allegedly used "unsavoury words" to describe Wike while anchoring the Morning Show program. The FCT Minister's aide did not hold back in his response.

"I was shocked to hear him turning himself to spokesperson of Rotimi Amaechi, and I want to also suggest that, since he's now Amaechi's spokesperson, he should excuse himself from Arise TV and go and do his job properly," Olayinka stated.

He further accused Abati of misusing the Arise TV platform, saying: "He should not be using a platform provided by respected Nigerians to ventilate his anger, his frustration and his hatred for Wike, because it is obvious that he hates Wike, he said Wike is wicked, yeah, that Wike is rude."

Claims About Dasuki Funds

In perhaps the most serious allegation, Olayinka claimed that Abati and his wife had visited Wike's residence seeking financial help during Abati's troubles with the EFCC over funds allegedly received from Sambo Dasuki, the former National Security Adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.

"When he had issue with EFCC and he had to pay back the money, the money he got from Dasuki, money from Dasuki loot, he himself and his wife knew the road to Wike's house, to go and beg for a bailout, which he obviously got, and Wike was not rude that time," Olayinka alleged.

The aide also criticized Abati for presenting himself as a "moral police" while allegedly concealing his own political affiliations, claiming that Abati was once a member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

As of the time of reporting, Abati has not publicly responded to these allegations.

The exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between allies of Wike and those perceived to be supporting Amaechi in the continuing political rivalry that has characterized Rivers State politics for years.

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