Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), dismissed the political significance of Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara’s recent alliance claims, arguing that the key figures who have recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) lack substantial electoral influence. Speaking at a New Year banquet in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara announced that several prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwarts—including Prince Uche Secondus, Rt. Hon. Austin Opara, Alabo Abiye Sekibo, and former Governor Sir Celestine Omehia—had withdrawn their support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and now back President Bola Tinubu and his administration.
Wike responded during a political gathering in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni (ONELGA) Local Government Area on Sunday, questioning the effectiveness of the defectors. He noted that these individuals failed to deliver even ten percent of the votes needed for Atiku in the 2023 presidential election, asking, “They couldn’t give Atiku 10 % in 2023, so what is the political advantage?” without naming anyone specifically. He emphasized that, despite any perceived internal rifts, he and his allies remain committed to ensuring President Tinubu’s victory in the 2027 general election, stating, “We will do all we can to see that we give Tinubu the total support that is required.”
The FCT Minister also used the address to rebut criticism from John Mbata, President‑General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who had recently described Wike as “semi‑illiterate.” Wike defended his educational background and professional standing, contrasting his own academic achievements with what he termed the failures of his detractors. He highlighted his graduation from the University of Port Harcourt, his subsequent attendance at law school, his elevation to Life Bencher, and the receipt of one of Nigeria’s highest national honors, challenging the narrative of his alleged lack of education.
These exchanges underscore the intensifying political maneuvering within Rivers State and the broader Nigerian political landscape as stakeholders position themselves ahead of the next election cycle.
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