Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu's 2027 presidential bid. On Friday, Wike addressed stakeholders of the Akpor Kingdom in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, emphasizing the need for a stronger and broader political structure to deliver electoral support for Tinubu. This move is part of Wike's renewed engagement with the state, aimed at building a political movement that advances the interests of the people.
Wike's decision to mobilize support for Tinubu comes as no surprise, given his long-standing backing for the President's ambitions. The former Rivers State governor stressed that his interest in the state is driven by a desire to help the people, rather than personal gains. “My interest in Rivers State is for God to use me as a vessel to help our people. I am back here not for what I will get, but for what I will be to raise my people,” Wike said, highlighting his selfless motivations.
Wike also emphasized the importance of putting aside political differences to work towards a common goal. He encouraged stakeholders to prioritize the collective interest of the people, stating that there are no permanent enemies in politics, only permanent collective interests. This approach, Wike believes, will help to broaden the support base for Tinubu's presidential bid and ensure a stronger showing in the 2027 election.
The FCT minister reiterated his pledge to resign as FCT minister if President Tinubu fails to win Rivers State and the FCT in the 2027 election. This commitment underscores Wike's dedication to Tinubu's success and his willingness to take bold steps to demonstrate his support. Wike also urged political leaders in Rivers to focus on building a larger support base, as numerical strength will be critical in determining electoral outcomes.
Wike called for an all-inclusive mobilisation structure in Obio-Akpor, directing politicians, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to participate in the campaign. He emphasized the need for a united effort, stating that everyone will have a role to play in the election. “Obio-Akpor as a whole, whether you are a politician, whether you are a traditional ruler, whether you are a pastor, or whether you are a native doctor, I need everybody now,” Wike said.
Reflecting on his tenure as chairman of Obio-Akpor, Wike noted that his re-election was a result of the impact of his administration and his relationship with residents. He identified Wards 15, 16, and 17 as critical areas for mobilisation, with over 200 polling units. Wike urged local leaders to deploy unit coordinators and door-to-door canvassers across these polling units to maximise their electoral potential.
As Wike continues to mobilize support for Tinubu's 2027 presidential bid, his efforts are likely to have a significant impact on the electoral landscape in Rivers State and the FCT. With his unwavering commitment to Tinubu's success, Wike is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the election. The FCT minister's dedication to building a broader support base and his emphasis on collective interests may ultimately prove decisive in securing a strong electoral performance for Tinubu.
Key points
- Wike reaffirms his support for President Bola Tinubu's 2027 presidential bid and vows to mobilize Rivers State stakeholders to consolidate support for the President.
- The FCT minister emphasizes the need for a stronger and broader political structure to deliver electoral support for Tinubu, prioritizing the collective interest of the people.
- Wike pledges to resign as FCT minister if Tinubu fails to win Rivers State and the FCT in the 2027 election, underscoring his commitment to the President's success.
