The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculations that he has endorsed candidates for political positions in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that such decisions will be taken collectively by party elders.
ENigeria Newspaper learnt this while the minister was speaking at a meeting of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja. Wike cautioned against premature endorsements, warning that personal ambitions could fracture existing political alliances.
He made it clear that no individual has received his backing at the state level, stressing that the only endorsement so far remains at the presidential level.
Wike said, “Anything I say in the night is what I will say in the daytime,” underscoring his stance that his public and private positions are consistent.
The former Rivers State governor emphasised that the strength of the current political bloc lies in its unity, not financial influence, noting that their collaboration has unsettled opponents.
“If we were not working together, if we were not united, it would be difficult. People are not happy that we are working together, so they must find anything to make sure we are divided,” he stated.
He warned that attempts to sow discord within the group would not succeed, adding that loyalty and discipline remain critical to sustaining their influence.
Wike also expressed disappointment in some beneficiaries of the group’s political structure, accusing them of turning against the leadership after securing appointments.
“Woe be unto the person that we have given an appointment [who] goes back to castigate,” he said, describing such actions as a betrayal.
According to him, some individuals who once sought his guidance can no longer face him, a situation he attributed to a lack of character.
Reiterating his position on endorsements, Wike maintained that decisions on candidates for Rivers State would be taken after consultations among party leaders, not through individual declarations.
He, however, reaffirmed support for President Bola Tinubu, noting that this remains the only endorsement agreed upon by the group.
The minister also commended party leaders, council chairmen and other stakeholders for what he described as effective coordination, adding that the absence of complaints reflected a sense of inclusion within the ranks.
