The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and former governor of Rivers state, Nyesom Wike, has stated that political power is earned through strength and strategic action.
On Sunday, during a thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor, where he addressed party leaders, traditional rulers, women, and youths, Wike warned that Obio/Akpor Local Government Area remains a decisive force in Rivers State politics.
Wike also dismissed calls for his removal, stressing that the power to sack him lies solely with the President. While addressing the gathering, Wike stressed that politics should be guided by interest, not sentiment.
“There is no sentiment, there is no emotion. Politics is an interest; the interest of your people. Power is not given; we struggle for it. After all, if Donald Trump did not have power, would he go to Venezuela to pick a president? He wouldn’t. Because he has power, that’s why he can act,” Wike said.
“So for the people of Obio/Akpor, we have the power to dictate who becomes governor. All these people commenting from the sidelines, ask them if their local government, which produced only 5,000 votes, can challenge one that produced 40 per cent of the votes? Let us see how it will work.
“We will use our strength to punish them. Nobody has become governor in this state without Obio/Akpor making the pronouncement. Nobody has become the senator of Rivers East without Obio/Akpor deciding. So, if you like abusing us, after abusing us, come and look for the votes—and we will punish you with the votes.”
During his speech, the minister dismissed calls for his removal from office, stressing that such decisions rest solely with the President.
“Don’t bother about people who say ‘sack him.’ If my appointor believes I cannot offer anything again, he has the right, not that you should tell him. I am proud that the people of Obio/Akpor, the people of Rivers State, and Nigerians know we have not disappointed them in the FCT,” he said.
The minister has been touring the state’s 23 local government areas to appreciate residents for their support in the 2023 elections and to canvass continued backing for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.
Present at At the Obio/Akpor event were several key political figures and heavyweights in the state, including Hon. Martins Chike Amaewhule, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who reaffirmed the Assembly’s loyalty to Wike and pledged support for President Tinubu’s agenda.
Also in attendance was Hon. Ogundu Chinda, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, representing Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency, who assured Wike of unwavering backing from his constituents.
Local council leadership, including the Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, Dr. Gift Worlu, was present and described Wike as a pivotal leader for the area.
Traditional rulers, women leaders, and youth representatives from across the LGA also featured prominently in the gathering, reflecting broad community and political engagement.
