THIS DAWN — In a politically charged statement during his Christmas visit to Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Wike declared that the South must complete its eight-year presidential tenure under President Tinubu.
He emphasized the importance of honoring political agreements, criticizing what he described as opportunistic support from latecomers to Tinubu’s mandate.
Wike made these remarks during a Special Christmas Visit to Emohua Local Government Area (LGA), specifically at Rumuche.
He later addressed the people of Ikwerre LGA.
The visit was part of his annual outreach to communities in Rivers State, but this year’s event carried a strong political undertone.
The minister used the occasion to reflect on the political journey that led to Tinubu’s emergence as president in 2023.
He highlighted the role played by Rivers State—particularly the Ikwerre people—in delivering crucial votes during a time of uncertainty.
“Agreement Is Agreement”
Wike’s central message revolved around the principle of political consistency and loyalty.
He cautioned against what he termed “emergency singers” of the slogan “On your mandate, we shall stand,” suggesting that some politicians were now aligning with Tinubu only after his victory was secured.
“For us here, agreement is agreement,” Wike declared.
“You can be singing ‘on your mandate we shall stand’ in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is fine, but we have been supporting the President since 2023.
“Your new slogans will not help you,” Wike added.
This statement was a clear rebuke to certain political actors.
According to Wike, they failed to support Tinubu during the critical moments of the 2023 election but are now attempting to claim allegiance.
Political Risks and Early Support
Addressing the Ikwerre people, Wike praised their courage and foresight in backing Tinubu when his chances of winning were still uncertain.
He described their support as a political risk that paid off and emphasized that true loyalty is demonstrated during difficult times.
“In 2023, when it was difficult and people did not know that Mr President would emerge, those of us from Ikwerre understood that politics is about risk
“If you look at the votes that helped him win in Rivers State, they came particularly from Ikwerre,” Wike said.
He contrasted this with the behavior of those who only began to support Tinubu after his victory.
He said: “You take stands when things are tough, not when food is ready.”
Call for Southern Unity and Continuity
Wike’s remarks also touched on the broader issue of regional representation in Nigeria’s presidency.
He argued that the South must complete its eight-year cycle through Tinubu’s administration, regardless of party affiliations.
“The South must complete their eight years, and completing the eight years it doesn’t matter which party we belong to give Mr. President the support to succeed,” he said.
This statement signals Wike’s commitment to regional equity and continuity in leadership.
It suggested that political differences should be set aside to ensure the South retains the presidency until 2031.
Implications for National Politics
Wike’s comments carry significant weight in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As a prominent figure with influence across party lines, his endorsement of Tinubu’s full tenure could shape alliances and recalibrate political strategies ahead of the 2027 elections.
His emphasis on honoring agreements may also serve as a warning to political actors seeking to renegotiate power dynamics prematurely.
By invoking the sacrifices made by Rivers State and the Ikwerre people, Wike positions himself as a guardian of political integrity and regional loyalty.
His Christmas visit to Rivers State was more than a festive outreach—it was a reaffirmation of political loyalty and a call for consistency in governance.
Wike declared that President Tinubu must complete his eight-year term and criticizing opportunistic support.
He has, thus, reignited conversations about political agreements, regional representation, and the importance of standing firm during uncertain times.
His message resonates not only in Rivers State but across Nigeria’s evolving political terrain.
