During a heartfelt family Thanksgiving service held at St. Peter’s Deanery in Rumuepirikom, Obio-Akpor, Rivers State, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, opened up about a series of life-threatening experiences that have shaped his recent years. Speaking candidly before family, friends, and well-wishers, Wike recounted his near-fatal survival of a plane crash, along with other significant personal challenges he has faced.
Wike revealed that shortly after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary, while en route to Abuja, the aircraft he was traveling in suffered a critical malfunction. Approximately 15 minutes after taking off from the Air Force base, one of the plane’s engines exploded, causing a terrifying situation mid-flight. According to Wike, the cockpit was locked during the ordeal, limiting communication, and it was the pilot’s quick thinking and professionalism that ensured the safety of all onboard.
The pilot immediately decided to return to Port Harcourt, where emergency services were already on standby to receive the aircraft. Thanks to their swift response and the pilot’s expertise, the plane landed safely without any casualties. Wike admitted that he initially chose not to disclose the incident publicly to avoid causing panic among his supporters and the general public.
In addition to this harrowing aviation experience, Wike shared deeply personal news about his family’s trials during a tumultuous political period. He disclosed that during the intense 2023 presidential election campaign, his wife was diagnosed with cancer. Despite the gravity of her illness, she remained a source of strength and encouragement, urging Wike to persevere in his political ambitions. Wike expressed profound gratitude for her recovery, attributing her healing to divine intervention and the power of faith. He emphasized the importance of resilience and support from loved ones in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.
Further adding to the narrative of survival and endurance, Wike recounted a poisoning incident that occurred in December 2018 at the PDP secretariat. The poisoning severely damaged his liver and kidneys, placing his life in grave danger. In response to the severity of his condition, he was urgently flown to Beirut, Lebanon, for specialized medical treatment. There, doctors confirmed the extent of the damage to his vital organs and initiated intensive care.
Wike’s recovery was slow but steady, and after a period of treatment, his organs began to regain function, allowing him to return home. This experience, he noted, was another testament to his resilience and faith in overcoming adversity.