The political landscape of Rivers State is once again under the spotlight as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, made a powerful declaration about the epicenter of electoral power in the state.
The Decisive Power of Obio/Akpor
Speaking directly to a crowd of supporters during a 'thank you' visit to the Obio/Akpor Local Government Council on 11 January 2026, Wike left no room for ambiguity. He stated unequivocally that the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area holds the ultimate key to the Rivers State Government House. According to the former governor, the area's formidable voting strength has historically been the determining factor in who clinches the state's top seat.
"For the people of Obio/Akpor, we have the power to dictate who becomes governor," Wike asserted. He framed his argument with a pointed rhetorical question, highlighting the numerical dominance of the LGA: "Can a local government that produced 5,000 votes challenge one that produced 40 per cent of the votes?" This statement underscores his claim that Obio/Akpor delivers a significant and often decisive percentage of the total votes in any statewide election.
A Warning Against Sentiment and Ingratitude
Wike's message was also a stern lecture on the realities of political power. He cautioned politicians and stakeholders against taking the support of Obio/Akpor for granted, emphasizing that influence is earned through strategy, not given as a gift. "Power is not dashed; power is struggled for. There is no sentiment or emotion in politics, only the interest of the people," he declared, stressing that political power must be both won and defended through continuous and strategic mobilization.
Echoing this sentiment, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government, Dr. Gift Worlu, who described Wike as "a gift" to the area, issued a clear warning about future political alignments. While affirming that the council is clear on its direction for the 2027 general elections, particularly at the presidential level, Worlu drew a firm line regarding the governorship. "In 2027, we know where to go. But when it comes to the governorship, we will not go the way of ingratitude," he stated, signaling that loyalty and past support would be critical factors.
Wike Addresses Tenure and Performance
Shifting focus to his current role, Wike also responded to murmurs about his position as FCT Minister. He made it clear that any decision about his removal rests solely with President Bola Tinubu, who appointed him. Dismissing the critics, Wike expressed confidence in his record, stating, "If my appointer believes I can no longer offer anything, he has the right to decide. But I am proud that the people of Obio/Akpor, Rivers State and Nigerians are proud of what we are doing in the FCT."
This declaration and the surrounding commentary from local leaders solidify Obio/Akpor's reputation as the kingmaker of Rivers State politics. The statements set a clear and strategic tone for the political calculations and alliances that will define the intense battle for the Rivers governorship as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
