On Friday, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, reaffirmed his unshakeable political alignment with President Bola Tinubu, rallying the political structure of Rivers State to consolidate support for the President. Wike made this declaration during a strategic consultative meeting with stakeholders of the Akpor Kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government, Rivers State. He emphasized that his interest in Rivers State is to help the people, not for personal gain.
Wike reiterated his decision to resign as Minister if President Tinubu loses in Rivers State and the FCT. He stressed that expanding the political base is essential for delivering democratic dividends. According to Wike, politics is driven by the collective interest of the people, not perpetual animosity. He noted that there is no permanent enemy in politics, only permanent collective interest.
Wike reflected on his political trajectory, which led to his appointment as FCT Minister, describing it as an extraordinary milestone that defied political convention. He attributed his success to working with President Tinubu. Wike's return to grassroots mobilization in Rivers State aims to leverage his position to uplift the state and its people.
Wike charged political actors in the state not to be distracted by social media criticism regarding his open-door policy toward former detractors. He asserted that true political strength lies in numerical superiority. Wike demanded an all-inclusive campaign structure spanning every stratum of society in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, calling on traditional rulers, clergy, and community leaders to unite behind a single political direction.
Wike directed local leaders to immediately deploy unit coordinators and door-to-door canvassers across all polling units. He urged them to mobilize their immediate families, in-laws, and neighbors to ensure a decisive victory. Wike highlighted Wards 15, 16, and 17 in Obio-Akpor Local Government as strategic strongholds capable of deciding electoral outcomes across the local council.
Wike reminded incumbent council leaders that performance and human connection remain the ultimate yardsticks for re-election. He stated that he was elected twice as Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government because people felt the impact of governance and because he related with the people. Wike affirmed that he would remain the state's "Chief Critic" and guide to ensure elected council officers stay accountable to the electorate.
Wike was accompanied by the Rivers State APC governorship candidate, Kingsley Chinda, and other political leaders. His unwavering loyalty to his constituency and commitment to President Tinubu's success underscore the significance of this rally in Akpor Kingdom. The Minister's efforts aim to ensure a decisive victory for the President in Rivers State and the FCT.
Key points
- Wike vows to resign as Minister if President Tinubu loses in Rivers State and the FCT.
- Wike emphasizes the importance of numerical superiority in politics.
- Wike directs local leaders to deploy unit coordinators and door-to-door canvassers across all polling units.
