The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed his appreciation for the support given to President Bola Tinubu during the last presidential election. Speaking at a thanksgiving service in Rivers State, Wike noted that he and his supporters stood by Tinubu when it was challenging for others to do so. He emphasized that those who are now backing the president were not as visible during the election period.
The event, organized by former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, took place in Ochigba, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State. Wike’s comments come less than a month after Governor Sim Fubara defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. Fubara’s defection occurred after he resumed office following a six-month suspension by the president due to a political crisis in the state.
Wike stated that his supporters’ decision to back Tinubu was not based on popular opinion, but rather on their conviction that it was the right choice. He acknowledged that the struggles of his supporters would not go unnoticed and expressed confidence that their efforts would yield positive results. Wike’s remarks highlight the complexities of Nigerian politics, where alliances and loyalty can shift rapidly.
The situation in Rivers State has been marked by political tensions, with Governor Fubara’s defection being a significant development. Wike’s comments suggest that he remains committed to his supporters and is aware of the challenges they faced in backing Tinubu during the election. As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, Wike’s statement serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty and perseverance in the country’s political arena.
The implications of Wike’s comments and Governor Fubara’s defection are likely to be closely watched in the coming weeks and months. With the political dynamics in Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole being highly fluid, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the country’s political landscape. For now, Wike’s expression of gratitude to his supporters and his commitment to their cause serves as a testament to the enduring power of loyalty and conviction in Nigerian politics.