The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has called on Rivers State residents to support the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections. He made this appeal during a Rainbow Coalition town hall meeting in Abonnema, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of the state. Wike predicted that President Bola Tinubu would win Rivers State easily and urged the people to vote for APC candidates at all levels.
Wike specifically advised residents against supporting the New Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate, describing the party as lacking the political strength to win the election. He noted that while the NDC candidate is one of their sons, it is unrealistic to expect him to win under that party. Wike emphasized that the party's limitations make it an unviable option for the residents.
The Minister also criticized the Peoples Democratic Party, citing its prolonged internal crisis as a hindrance to producing a credible presidential candidate for the 2027 election. He expressed his opinion that the party's crisis has weakened its ability to present a strong candidate. Wike's comments reflect his assessment of the current political landscape in Nigeria.
Wike took a swipe at former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing him as the president of social media. He emphasized that Nigeria needs more than popularity to produce a capable leader. According to Wike, while Obi may be popular on social media, he lacks the leadership qualities required to lead the country.
The Minister defended President Tinubu's removal of the petrol subsidy, acknowledging the economic hardship facing Nigerians but maintaining that the decision required courage and was necessary to address the country's challenges. Wike emphasized that leadership is key to addressing Nigeria's problems and that the country requires courageous leadership.
Wike claimed that Rivers State has secured at least 47 federal appointments under the Tinubu administration, describing this development as unprecedented. He urged residents to recognize the benefits of the state's relationship with the Federal Government. The Minister cited the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road and increased allocations to state and local governments as some of the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
The town hall meeting was part of Wike's efforts to mobilize support for the APC in Rivers State. The Amanyanabo of Abonnema, HRM King Disrael Gbobo Bob-Manuel II, commended efforts to maintain peace in the community and expressed hope that the 2027 election period would be peaceful. The Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, Aboiya Bob-Fubara, also pledged to mobilize support for Tinubu and APC candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
Key points
- Wike urges Rivers State residents to support the APC in the 2027 general elections.
- He criticizes the New Nigeria Democratic Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party.
- Wike defends President Tinubu's removal of the petrol subsidy and highlights the state's achievements under his administration.
