FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has hailed the late National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-South, Chief Daniel Orbih, for his unwavering loyalty and support during Wike's 2015 governorship bid. At a tribute event in Abuja, Wike revealed that Orbih resisted intense political pressure and lucrative inducements to help him emerge as Governor of Rivers State. Wike credited Orbih's steadfastness for securing his governorship.
According to Wike, the period leading to the 2015 Rivers governorship election was marked by intense political manoeuvring, with powerful interests allegedly attempting to persuade Orbih to withdraw his support. Despite these efforts, Orbih remained loyal, providing practical support for Wike's campaign, including donating two bulletproof Mercedes-Benz buses to strengthen his security and mobilising political structures across the region.
Wike noted that Orbih's loyalty was exceptional, as he never demanded personal rewards for his support. Throughout Wike's eight years in office, Orbih never approached him seeking contracts, appointments, or other personal favours. Wike attributed Orbih's character and family values for his dependable nature, particularly during periods of political crisis.
Wike also credited Orbih with playing a major role in shaping the political fortunes of several politicians in the South-South. Many serving lawmakers would not have attained their positions without Orbih's support and strategic interventions. Wike recalled Orbih's contribution to political bridge-building in Edo State, supporting politicians across party divides without seeking personal benefits.
Other dignitaries, including Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Magnus Abe, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, paid tribute to Orbih. Abe recalled serving as Director-General of Orbih's first governorship campaign, while Oshiomhole credited Orbih with making him a better governor by forcing him to be more accountable as an opposition leader.
Oshiomhole shared that he often considered how Orbih and the opposition would scrutinise his decisions as governor, making him more prepared and accountable. He thanked Wike for helping to reconcile him with Orbih after their prolonged political disagreement. Oshiomhole urged Orbih's family to take solace in his legacy as a bridge-builder who promoted unity and development.
Former PDP presidential candidate, Sandy Onor, described Orbih as a profound public intellectual, a quintessential lover of Edo people, and a Nigerian patriot. Wike urged stakeholders in Edo State to honour Orbih with a state burial in recognition of his contributions to the state's political development.
Key points
- Nyesom Wike credits Daniel Orbih for his support in becoming Rivers Governor in 2015.
- Orbih resisted intense political pressure and lucrative inducements to maintain his loyalty to Wike.
- Wike urges a state burial for Orbih in recognition of his contributions to Edo State's political development.
