Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has recounted how the late Chief Daniel Orbih served as a divine instrument that paved the way for his emergence as Governor of Rivers State in 2015. Wike stated this in Abuja on Wednesday at a night of tributes held in honour of Orbih, former National Vice-Chairman, South South, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Orbih died on August 31 at the age of 64.
Wike recounted the intense political intrigues, pressure, and financial inducements that Orbih resisted in order to remain steadfast in supporting his gubernatorial ambition. He traced the roots of their close relationship to the critical political period between 2013 and 2014, describing it as a turbulent era during which political opponents made desperate attempts to derail his ambition. Wike said that Orbih's support was crucial to his success.
The FCT Minister revealed that massive inducements were offered to Orbih to withdraw his support, but he firmly refused. As the South South National Vice-Chairman of the PDP, Orbih supported Wike's campaign by donating two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses to strengthen his security and mobilised political support across the region. Wike expressed profound admiration for Orbih's selflessness.
Wike noted that throughout his eight-year tenure as Governor of Rivers State, Orbih never sought personal gain, patronage, or government contracts. He added that the loyalty and commitment demonstrated by Orbih were traits deeply rooted in his family heritage. Wike stated that Orbih's family background played a significant role in shaping his values and principles.
The FCT Minister stressed that without Orbih's strength as National Vice-Chairman in protecting the interests of the South South, many of the current national and state lawmakers would not have attained their positions. Wike highlighted Orbih's political foresight, saying the late politician laid the foundation for cross-party collaboration in Edo State and supported several politicians in the state without seeking personal benefit.
Other speakers at the event, including Senator Magnus Abe and Senator Adams Oshiohomle, paid tribute to Orbih, describing him as a bridge builder and a great man who impacted their lives in various ways. Abe said he became a politician through Orbih, who introduced him to politics. Oshiohomle said Orbih's political opposition helped make him a better governor.
Wike called for a state burial for Orbih in recognition of his contributions to the political development of Edo State, urging stakeholders in the state to honour his memory. The FCT Minister also pledged to keep his relationship with Orbih's family and discuss ways to preserve his legacies. Orbih was described as a profound public intellectual, a quintessential lover of Edo people, and a Nigerian patriot.
Key points
- Wike credits Orbih for his 2015 governorship victory
- Orbih resisted massive inducements to withdraw support for Wike
- Wike calls for a state burial for Orbih in recognition of his contributions
