Wike Explains Whether He Has Endorsed Rivers Candidate
- Nyesom Wike denied endorsing any governorship or elective office candidate in Rivers
- He said endorsement decisions rested with the Ferdinand Alabraba-led elders council
- Wike warned against rushed political alignments that could trigger internal divisions
Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has denied endorsing any aspirant for the 2027 governorship race or other elective offices in Rivers State, distancing himself from growing speculation within the state’s political space.
Wike spoke on Monday, March 30, in Abuja during a joint meeting of stakeholders drawn from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party.
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He said decisions on endorsements remain the sole responsibility of the elders council led by Ferdinand Alabraba and not his personal choice.
Endorsement authority rests with elders
The former Rivers governor said his political priority is focused elsewhere, stating that his only firm commitment ahead of the next election cycle is to support President Bola Tinubu’s second term bid.
He dismissed claims that private meetings or backroom arrangements had produced endorsements for any candidate, adding that his position had not changed in public or private.
Wike also reflected on past election cycles, warning against the practice of imposing candidates on Rivers voters. He said such moves had previously created tension and weakened internal cohesion.
He urged political actors to avoid rushed endorsements, noting that unchecked ambition often fuels division within parties.
“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.
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Unity seen as political strength
The minister said the alliance currently shaping Rivers' politics draws its strength from unity and shared purpose rather than financial power. According to him, cooperation among leaders has helped stabilise structures that once faced serious internal challenges.
Wike also revisited recent developments within the PDP, saying the party survived a major leadership crisis through the efforts of committed members.
He said loyal stakeholders reclaimed the party during its national convention, a process that produced Abdulrahman Mohammed as national chairman of a recognised faction.
He maintained that sustained unity, not early endorsements, would determine political success in Rivers as preparations for 2027 gradually take shape.
Anti-Tinubu candidates will lose out, Wike boasts
Earlier, Legit.ng reported Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had declared that only candidates aligned with President Bola Tinubu will receive his backing in the forthcoming area council elections in Abuja.
Wike made the position clear on Saturday, February 14, in Abuja while speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor.
He said his political support would cut across party lines but would be strictly limited to candidates who openly support Tinubu’s reelection bid ahead of the February 21 polls.
Source: Legit.ng
