Veteran Nollywood actor and media personality Patrick Doyle has publicly criticized Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, over his choice of seat during a recent media briefing — a grand, throne-like chair that has sparked outrage online. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Doyle, known for his outspoken views on national issues, took to social media to express his disapproval of the opulent chair Wike sat on, describing it as a symbol of “delusion of grandeur” among Nigeria’s political elites.
“If this isn’t a throne, I wonder what is,” Doyle wrote.
“Why on earth would a Minister of the Nigerian state mount a throne to address Nigerians? This is a sign of the psychosis afflicting Nigerian political office holders — delusion of grandeur.”
The post quickly gained traction, fueling a wave of mixed reactions from netizens. While some supported Doyle’s stance, others defended Wike, citing his boldness and active media engagement.
Some online reactions:
Stanley Okocha wrote: “He is the President of Abuja. He needs a throne for his media parley nau. The only Minister who addresses the media regularly. You want try Wike!”
Raymond Ogwu added humorously: “You no see the mustache wey be like Hitler own? You think say the man well so?”
Olachi Ejiogu-Okeiyi commented: “These are the things that nauseate me in Nigerian politics. How things like this become a norm is so scary. Thank you sir for condemning such.”
Photos from the media event, now circulating online, clearly show Wike seated in a regal, gold-trimmed chair that many have likened to a monarchical throne, further fueling debate about power perception and elitism in Nigerian politics.
Doyle’s critique touches on a growing concern — the increasingly flamboyant lifestyles of public officials in a country grappling with economic hardship, inflation, and social discontent.
As Nigeria’s political class continues to face scrutiny, moments like these remind citizens of the disconnect between governance and modesty, and why optics matter in public service.
