The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reiterated that he harbours no regrets over his open support for President Bola Tinubu since 2022, maintaining that his stance was clear and unwavering before, during, and after the 2023 presidential election.
In a statement released on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the Minister spoke during a special event organised to celebrate his 58th birthday anniversary.
He explained that his political choices have always been guided by character and integrity, stressing that he never hid his support for President Tinubu at any point.
Wike recalled that in the lead-up to the 2023 presidential election, he stood out as the only prominent figure from the main opposition party who publicly declared support for President Tinubu. According to him, the decision was rooted in equity, fairness, and justice, as well as his belief that political power should rotate to the South.
He further stated that his leadership credentials were clearly demonstrated during the elections in Rivers State, where the All Progressives Congress emerged victorious in the presidential poll, while the Peoples Democratic Party recorded successes in the National Assembly, governorship, State House of Assembly, and local government elections under his leadership.
The birthday event, which took place in the early hours of Saturday at Wike’s Abuja residence, attracted political leaders cutting across party lines, who gathered to honour the former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister for his achievements and political influence.
Among those present were serving and former National Assembly members from Rivers State, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, chairmen of local government areas, as well as close allies and longtime political associates.
Several speakers used the occasion to praise the Minister, describing him as a high-performing and strategic politician whose influence is evident nationwide. They encouraged him to remain steadfast and assured him of their continued loyalty and support.
Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former Peoples Democratic Party chairman, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, referred to the FCT Minister as the “naked wire” of Rivers politics. Akawor, who also served as the Director-General of Wike’s 2015 governorship campaign, said Wike’s political accomplishments had validated President Bola Tinubu’s decision to work with him, describing the Minister as the right product selected from the PDP.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, who led 27 lawmakers to the celebration, expressed gratitude to Wike for being a dependable leader. He pledged the unwavering loyalty of the Assembly members, declaring, “Wherever our leader (Wike) goes, we will follow him; whoever he is supporting, we will also support.”
Speaking on behalf of local government chairmen, the Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government and Rivers State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Allwell Ihunda, commended Wike’s consistency and compassion, describing him as a leader who remains true to his principles.
Other notable figures who paid tribute included the Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Committee, Mohammed Abdulrahman, PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih, APC National Vice Chairman, Hon. Victor Giadom, former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, Senator Sandy Onor, Senator Magnus Abe, Senator George Sekibo, Senator Bari Mpigi, and several others.
Responding to the goodwill messages, Wike expressed appreciation to his political family and associates for their steadfast support, acknowledging the role they have played throughout his leadership journey. He said he finds fulfilment in working closely with his people and reaffirmed his commitment to continued collaboration in the interest of Rivers State and Nigeria.
The Minister added that criticism and verbal attacks have never discouraged him, noting that such experiences have instead strengthened his resolve. He concluded by stating that he remains unfazed by those who abuse or criticise him.
The celebration ended with special prayers offered for the Minister and his family.
What you should know
Nyesom Wike is a key political figure in Nigeria whose open support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2023 elections generated national debate, especially given his roots in the opposition PDP.
His political influence in Rivers State remains significant, as reflected in election outcomes across party lines.
As FCT Minister, Wike continues to command loyalty from political allies across different parties, reinforcing his reputation as a decisive and controversial leader whose choices are driven by conviction rather than party sentiment.
