Wike Denies Endorsing Any Guber Candidate in Rivers 

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja 

Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has refuted endorsing any candidate for the governorship or any other political office in Rivers State, ahead of the 2027 general election.

He affirmed this on Monday night while addressing a joint gathering of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.

Wike insisted that his public and private positions remained consistent, noting that the onus to endorse candidates was with the Rivers Council of Elders led by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba. 

He cautioned against the rush for endorsements and the internal divisions that personal ambitions could create.

“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 said.

He reiterated that his only political obligation and that of the group ahead of the 2027 general election was to provide groundswell of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is seeking reelection.

He vowed that the mistakes of previous election cycles would not be repeated, warning political office seekers to note that no governor from any state could impose a candidate on Rivers State.

Wike sought the commitment of the members of the joint coalition towards ensuring the best interests of Rivers State, adding that only those genuinely dedicated to this cause would benefit.

He emphasised that the group’s current political strength was built on unity and commitment rather than financial influence, warning that external forces were actively seeking to divide the stakeholders because of their successful collaboration.

Wike accused certain individuals who, after benefiting from appointments facilitated by the group, turned against it and its leadership, describing such behaviour as a failure of character.

He warned that those attempting to upstage others through deceit would not succeed.