The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended his approach to politics, saying his Christian faith does not require him to conduct himself like a pastor.

Speaking during a special media chat in Port Harcourt on Saturday, the former Rivers State governor said politics and religion operate under different principles, arguing that many of his critics fail to understand the realities of political engagement.

Wike dismissed claims that he should emulate his father, who was a gospel preacher, in the way he handles political affairs.

“Politics is not like church. I’m a Christian but not a pastor. That my father is a pastor does not make me a pastor,” he said.

Drawing a comparison with his own family, Wike added: “I am a lawyer but my second son is not a lawyer, so because his mother is a judge, does that make my son a judge?”

He maintained that every profession has its own standards and expectations, stressing that politics cannot be assessed using the same principles that guide religious ministry.

“If you want to be a politician, there are rules and if you want to be a pastor, there are rules. That is why when I hear people saying they are angry because this happened or that happened, I say you are talking theory,” he said.

Wike’s remarks come amid sustained criticism of his political style, particularly over his prolonged feud with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The minister has faced accusations that his actions are aimed at retaining influence over Rivers State’s political structure despite leaving office as governor.