The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied endorsing any candidate for governorship or any other political office in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring instead that his only commitment at the moment is his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Wike said decisions on who emerges as candidates in the state remain the responsibility of the Elders Council led by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, stressing that he has not and will not impose any aspirant.
The minister made this known while addressing a joint gathering of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party at his official residence in Abuja on Monday night.
Reaffirming his political stance, Wike said his backing for Tinubu is open and consistent, noting that he has never hidden his position regarding the 2027 presidential race.
He also warned aspirants against relying on endorsements or political influence, insisting that the era of imposing candidates on Rivers State is over and that lessons from past elections will not be repeated.
Wike also acknowledged the roles played by the State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, insisting that their actions have been crucial in shaping current political developments.
He urged members of the joint coalition to remain committed to working in the best interests of Rivers State, adding that only those who are genuinely dedicated to this cause will benefit.
Wike cautioned against the rush for endorsements and warned against internal divisions that personal ambitions can create.
The Minister emphasised that the group’s current political strength was built on unity and commitment rather than financial influence.
He warned that external forces were actively seeking to divide the stakeholders because of their successful collaboration.
“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 will do anything to ensure we are divided,” Wike stated.
Wike expressed disappointment in certain individuals who, after benefiting from appointments facilitated by the group, have turned around to criticise its leadership.
He described such behaviour as a failure of character and warned that those attempting to upstage others through deceit would not succeed.
Clarifying his position on upcoming political activities, Wike dismissed rumours of private endorsements for elective political offices, insisting that his public and private positions remained consistent.
He maintained that the only endorsement currently recognised by the group is for the presidency, noting that the group has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He commended the council chairmen, Rivers elders, and the leadership of both parties for their coordination in bringing stakeholders together, noting that the absence of complaints about inclusiveness was a testament to the success of the meeting.
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