The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied endorsing any individual for future political contests in Rivers State, insisting that such decisions rest with party elders.
Wike made this known on Monday night while addressing a joint meeting of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party at his residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
In a video shared by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, the minister cautioned against premature endorsements, warning that personal ambitions were fueling divisions within the political ranks.
“I have not promised anybody support. The only commitment I have made… is that we are going to support President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
Wike emphasised that the group’s political strength is rooted in unity and cooperation rather than financial influence, alleging that external forces were attempting to create disunity among members.
“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 must find anything to make sure we are divided,” he added.
He also expressed disappointment with some beneficiaries of political appointments who later criticised the group’s leadership.
“Woe be unto the person that we have given an appointment [who] goes back to castigate,” he said, noting that some individuals who once sought his guidance could no longer face him.
On claims of secret endorsements, Wike dismissed such reports, maintaining consistency in both his public and private positions.
He stated that he has not endorsed any candidate in either the APC or PDP for state-level positions and would only do so after consultations with party elders.
“Anything I say in the night is what I will say in the daytime,” he added, stressing transparency in his political dealings.
Wike noted that the only endorsement currently agreed upon by the group is for President Bola Tinubu.
The development comes amid an ongoing political rift between Wike and the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Both men were once allies, with Wike playing a significant role in Fubara’s emergence in 2023, but their relationship later deteriorated, leading to a prolonged political crisis that required intervention by President Tinubu.
With the 2027 elections approaching, political alignments in the state remain uncertain, particularly regarding whether the governor will seek re-election and how existing power blocs will reposition themselves.
