The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has rallied political stakeholders in Rivers State to support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. Wike made the call during a consultative meeting with stakeholders of Akpor Kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of the state. He emphasized the need for collective support, urging political actors to put aside past disagreements and work towards a broader support base.
Wike reiterated his pledge to resign as FCT minister if Tinubu loses the presidential election in Rivers State and the FCT. He stated that his involvement in Rivers politics was driven by his desire to contribute to the state. Wike described himself as a vessel to help the people of Rivers, saying he is back in the state not for personal gain but to uplift his people.
The former Rivers State governor emphasized the importance of unity in politics, saying there is no permanent enemy in politics, but rather a permanent collective interest. He called on political leaders to bring different groups together, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, ahead of the election.
Wike specifically identified Wards 15, 16, and 17 in Obio-Akpor as crucial areas in his mobilisation efforts, citing that they have over 200 polling units. He directed political leaders to appoint unit coordinators and door-to-door canvassers across the polling units and mobilise residents ahead of the election.
Wike also recalled his tenure as the first elected chairman of Obio-Akpor to win a second term after the council's creation in 1989. He attributed his re-election to his relationship with residents and the impact of his administration. Wike said he was always identifying with the people, attending events such as burials and thanksgivings.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory also stated that he would continue to monitor elected local government officials in Rivers State, describing himself as the state's "Chief Critic". Wike was accompanied by the Rivers State APC governorship candidate, Kingsley Chinda, and other political leaders during the meeting.
Wike's move is seen as a significant step in mobilizing support for President Tinubu in Rivers State. The meeting with stakeholders of Akpor Kingdom is part of Wike's efforts to ensure a strong showing for the President in the state. Wike's commitment to Tinubu's success is unwavering, as evident in his pledge to resign if Tinubu loses in Rivers State and the FCT.
Key points
- Wike pledges to resign as FCT minister if Tinubu loses in Rivers State and the FCT.
- Wike identifies Wards 15, 16, and 17 in Obio-Akpor as crucial areas in his mobilisation efforts.
- Wike calls for unity in politics, saying there is no permanent enemy, but rather a permanent collective interest.
