The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, citing political loyalty and gratitude for his ministerial appointment.
Speaking during an interview on TVC on Sunday, Wike emphasized that Tinubu played a key role in his political stability, making it imperative for him to stand by the president.
“When Someone Stands by You, You Must Reciprocate”
Wike dismissed any possibility of withdrawing his support for Tinubu, stating that political loyalty should be a two-way street.
“When someone stands by you, it’s only right to reciprocate,” he asserted, reinforcing his decision to back Tinubu in the next election.
Rift with Governor Fubara
The former Rivers State governor also addressed his strained relationship with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike claimed that his political camp had expected Fubara to prioritize their interests but felt abandoned.
“If the President hadn’t given us this position, where would we be today?” he questioned, suggesting that Tinubu’s backing had been crucial for his political survival.
Rejecting Ethnic Politics in Rivers State
Wike took aim at ethnic-based politics in Rivers State, particularly narratives that favor Fubara as the Ijaw candidate. He argued that performance, not ethnicity, should determine political choices and accused some politicians of using ethnic sentiment to advance personal interests.
“Many use ethnicity as a political tool, but when they get power, they don’t share the benefits with the people they claim to represent,” he stated.
A History of Defying the PDP
Wike’s latest declaration further cements his break from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He had previously admitted to not supporting the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in a move that signaled his growing alignment with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
With his open endorsement of Tinubu’s 2027 bid, Wike continues to chart an independent political path, setting the stage for further tensions within the PDP.
