FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike addressing supporters in Rivers State
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned politicians against believing that joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or openly declaring loyalty to President Bola Tinubu automatically secures a second-term ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike gave the warning on Tuesday while addressing supporters during a political meeting in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, as part of his ongoing consultations across the state.
The minister, who was received by the Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, Chidi Lloyd, traditional ruler Sergeant Awuse and other party leaders, used the platform to restate his views on political loyalty, relevance and the need for clearly defined agreements.
Speaking to the gathering, Wike stressed the importance of ensuring that the Ikwerre ethnic nationality remains visible and influential in Nigeria’s political space, warning that failure to make strategic decisions could lead to political marginalisation.
According to him, political relevance is built through consistency, foresight and commitment, not by aligning with winning sides after elections have already been concluded.
The former Rivers State governor warned that pledging support for President Tinubu, especially after the 2023 general elections, should not be mistaken for an automatic pathway to re-election in 2027.
He insisted that politics must be anchored on clear understandings and mutual commitments, adding that promises made must be honoured, as loyalty without structure or agreement offers no guarantees.
Earlier, the council chairman reaffirmed Emohua’s support for President Tinubu and Wike, declaring that the local government remained firmly aligned with their political leadership.
From Emohua, Wike proceeded to Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area, where he delivered a similar message. At the event, the Chairman of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency and former council chairman, Samuel Nwanosike, pledged the area’s continued support for Wike, dismissing claims that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could gain political ground in the council.
Political observers say Wike’s engagements across Ikwerre land signal a deliberate effort to consolidate his political base, even as his remarks point to possible realignments and underlying tensions ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle in Rivers State.
