FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Assures Tinubu of Total Support in Rivers Ahead of 2027

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared Rivers State a secured political stronghold for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election, boldly stating that the President can “sleep with two eyes closed” while awaiting election results from the state. The former Rivers governor made the remark during a “thank you” visit to Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, where he addressed a large gathering of supporters.

Wike described Rivers as a core base of the Renewed Hope Agenda, insisting that the state’s political structure remains firmly aligned with President Tinubu. He emphasized that the loyalty demonstrated by Rivers people during the 2023 presidential election, when they stood by Tinubu against intense political pressure, would be replicated and even strengthened in 2027.

According to the minister, no political force or internal disagreement would derail the collective resolve of his supporters. He stressed that Rivers State remains one of the few states where the President enjoys organic grassroots support, adding that the unity of the Renewed Hope family in the state is unshakable and deeply rooted.

Warning to Political Latecomers as Wike Defends 2023 Support Base

In a stern warning to political actors seeking relevance ahead of 2027, Wike cautioned against attempts by individuals who did not support Tinubu in 2023 to suddenly claim leadership of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Rivers State. He recalled how his political camp took an early and risky decision to support Tinubu when it was unpopular and uncertain.

Using vivid metaphors, Wike likened such political opportunism to people who did not contribute ingredients to cooking a meal but want to eat first when the food is ready. He maintained that those who supported Atiku Abubakar in the last election and failed to deliver significant votes in Rivers had no moral right to hijack the structure built by loyal supporters.

The minister insisted that nobody could push him or his supporters aside, noting that the struggle for Tinubu’s victory in Rivers was deliberate, strategic, and sustained. He urged his followers not to be intimidated by political distractions but to remain focused, united, and committed to securing Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.

Rivers Leaders Pledge Loyalty as Wike Promises Better Years Ahead

Wike explained that his visit was primarily to thank the people of Rivers State for their support in the 2023 elections and to encourage them to continue working together for the future. He assured supporters that the dividends of their political choice were beginning to manifest and expressed optimism that 2026 would be better than 2025 for the state and its people.

Several political leaders used the occasion to reaffirm their loyalty to Wike and President Tinubu. The Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Sir Allwell Ihunda, praised Tinubu for strengthening local government democracy in Rivers and commended Wike’s eight-year tenure as governor, during which he said numerous life-impacting projects were executed across the state.

Other leaders, including Mrs Blessing Amadi of the Port Harcourt II Federal Constituency and State Assembly member Mr Smart Adoki, lauded Wike’s inclusive leadership style, particularly his empowerment of women in local government administration. They pledged continued allegiance to Wike’s political direction, declaring their readiness to mobilize fully once directives for the 2027 elections are given.