The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed Rivers State’s continued support for President Bola Tinubu, citing tangible federal appointments and development projects received under the current administration. Speaking on Saturday in Port Harcourt during a luncheon hosted by the Rainbow Coalition for candidates in the 2027 governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections, Wike emphasized the state’s gains since 2023. He urged Rivers residents to compare these achievements with what the state received under previous administrations, highlighting the president’s recognition and rewards as evidence of strong leadership.
Wike stressed that political choices should be guided by good governance and development, not ethnic or sectional sentiments. He called on his supporters to focus on grassroots mobilization, noting that elections are won at the polling unit level. “Television will not give you votes,” he said. “To get votes, you need to go to your polling units, which are in your wards and local governments. Make sure to take care of your polling unit, your ward, and your local government.” This message underscored his belief in direct engagement with voters as the foundation of electoral success.
The former governor also expressed confidence in the Rainbow Coalition’s political strength, inviting aspiring leaders to join the group. “If you want to have a say in Rivers politics, come and be part of the Rainbow Coalition,” he said. “If you want to be a governor, senator, member of the House of Representatives, or councillor, come and be part of our group.” He extended an olive branch to aggrieved politicians, urging reconciliation and cooperation for the state’s progress. “I am taking this opportunity to forgive everyone. Come back home with a sincere heart, and let us work together to move Rivers State forward,” he added.
Wike warned against any attempts to destabilize Rivers State, asserting that the people’s peaceful nature should not be mistaken for weakness. “The people of Rivers are calm and peaceful, but no one should mistake our peaceful nature for weakness. No one can come here and take what belongs to our people,” he declared. He maintained that leadership should be judged by competence and commitment to public service, not ethnicity or religion. “It doesn’t matter where a leader comes from. What matters is that the person will not disappoint us for supporting him. Our focus is on good governance and the development of Rivers State,” he concluded.
As Rivers State prepares for the 2027 elections, Wike’s remarks signal a strategic push for unity, development-focused politics, and strong grassroots engagement. His leadership continues to shape the state’s political landscape, reinforcing the importance of inclusive, results-driven governance.
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