University of Calabar Confers Honorary Doctorate on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike

The University of Calabar has awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Law to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during its convocation ceremony and 50th-anniversary celebration.

The honor was presented by the university’s Chancellor, Emir Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, at the institution’s conference center. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Cross River State Deputy Governor, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and his wife, who also received an honorary doctorate. Other lawmakers, such as Senator Asuquo Ekpeyong and Senate Leader Bamidele Opeyemi, were also present.

Wike’s honorary degree comes amid political tensions in Rivers State, where he has been linked to the ongoing crisis following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the region. Reports allege that Wike provided financial support to Senate President Akpabio to help rally lawmakers behind Tinubu’s decision.

According to sources cited by SaharaReporters, Akpabio intentionally delayed the Senate debate on the emergency rule until later in the day, ensuring only a few senators were present.

“Wike allegedly provided funds to Akpabio after Tinubu directed him to lay the groundwork for the state of emergency. Over $3 million was reportedly handed over during their meeting,” a source claimed.

It was further alleged that Akpabio later invited select senators for Iftar, distributing cash incentives in dollars based on their ranks.