2027: Wike Remains Tight-Lipped on Rivers Candidate Endorsements

Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has made it clear that he has not given his endorsement to any individual for future elections in Rivers State, emphasizing that such decisions are the prerogative of party leaders.

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Wike made this declaration while addressing a joint meeting of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party from Rivers State, which took place at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Monday night.

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He cautioned against the haste to secure endorsements, warning that personal ambitions and the accompanying internal divisions could have far-reaching consequences, and emphasized that the group's current standing is rooted in unity and dedication rather than financial influence.

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Wike also expressed concerns that external forces are actively seeking to create divisions within the stakeholders' ranks due to their successful collaboration, stating that their unity is a source of frustration for those who wish to see them divided.

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He noted that the success of their collaboration has attracted attention from those who seek to undermine their unity, saying, "If we were not working together, if we were not united, it would be difficult, and people are not happy that we are working together, so they must find anything to make sure we are divided."

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The minister expressed disappointment in certain individuals who, after benefiting from appointments facilitated by the group, have turned against the leadership, describing such behavior as a lack of character and warning that those who seek to deceive others will not succeed.

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Wike sternly warned that those who have been given appointments and later speak negatively about the leadership will face consequences, saying, "Woe be unto the person that we have given an appointment [who] goes back to castigate," and noted that some individuals who once sought his guidance can no longer maintain eye contact with him.

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Regarding upcoming elections, Wike dismissed rumors of private endorsements for local offices, maintaining that his public and private positions on the matter are identical, and insisted that the only recognized endorsement at present is for the presidency.

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He reiterated that he has not endorsed any candidate for either the PDP or the APC at the state level and will not do so until party elders have met to discuss the matter, and reaffirmed that the only person the group has officially endorsed is President Bola Tinubu.

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Wike emphasized his commitment to transparency, stating, "Anything I say in the night is what I will say in the daytime," and commended the council chairmen, Rivers elders, and the leadership of both parties for their efforts in organizing the gathering.

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The minister noted that the lack of complaints about the inclusion of members in the gathering is a testament to its success, demonstrating the effectiveness of the coordination and collaboration among the stakeholders.