Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that sudden declarations of loyalty to President Bola Tinubu do not ensure a governorship ticket for the 2027 elections in Rivers State. Speaking on Sunday during a Christmas visit to Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas, Wike emphasized that earlier political agreements must be honored and cannot be bypassed by new slogans of support.
Wike insisted that “agreement is agreement” and warned that he would resist attempts to alter political arrangements made with his group, stating that a man’s worth is defined by keeping his word. He criticized individuals—whom he referred to as “new supporters”—who have recently begun chanting “On your mandate we shall stand,” arguing that true support was shown by those who took risks for Tinubu in 2023 when his victory was not guaranteed. The Minister declared that claiming to support the President would not automatically translate into a political ticket in Rivers State, regardless of how much money a candidate might have. He also reiterated that the South must complete eight years in power, noting that after President Tinubu finishes his second term in 2031, the region will then determine its next political move.
Wike’s remarks come amid a major political realignment in Rivers State following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s official defection from the PDP to the APC in December 2025. While Fubara has recently received endorsements from some APC wings for a second term, Wike’s speech signals that the rift between the Minister and the Governor remains unresolved. Wike specifically took a swipe at Fubara’s supporters, noting that the same group had previously challenged the seats of pro-Wike lawmakers who joined the APC. He concluded by urging his supporters to remain relevant and prepared, stating that his group would stand firm on their established positions.
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