The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared a major political realignment in Rivers State, stating that his camp is dismantling all existing structures to secure victory in the 2027 general elections and mobilize support for President Bola Tinubu.
Political Overhaul and 2027 Ambitions
Speaking during a New Year visit to Abua/Odual Local Government Area on Wednesday, 1 January 2026, the former Rivers governor said the move was necessary to correct political missteps made during the 2023 elections. He reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu, mirroring the backing given in 2023.
"We have made up our minds to support Bola Tinubu, just as we did in 2023," Wike stated. "In politics, sometimes you make mistakes, but once you realise a mistake has been made, you correct it immediately. We will correct the mistake we made as far as this state is concerned." He urged his supporters to remain firm and resolute ahead of the crucial 2027 polls.
Rift with Fubara and Performance Defence
Wike's comments come amid the protracted political crisis with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The rift, which began less than six months into Fubara's tenure, has deepened significantly. Wike insisted the governor must adhere to the terms of a September 2025 peace deal, which reportedly included a clause that Fubara would not seek a second term—an allegation Wike claims has been breached.
The minister directly linked the growing attacks against him to his record in office. "What they could not do, somebody is doing, and that is why they are angry," he said, describing his performance as "sterling". He challenged critics to accountability, specifically responding to Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who had called him "semi-literate."
"I have heard the ranting of someone calling me 'semi-literate'. At least it is semi, not fully illiterate," Wike retorted. "He said I was washing his car. Fine. Someone who once washed a car went on to become chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government, governor for eight years, and a two-time minister." He questioned Azuta-Mbata's contributions during his eight years in the Senate.
Unity in Abua/Odual and Future Promises
Wike expressed satisfaction with the unity in Abua/Odual, stating his deliberate choice to visit on the first day of the year. He commended the local leadership and urged residents to work with the council chairman and follow political directives for 2027.
He stressed that political choices must be guided by conscience, not material gain. "Yes, we need money, but we cannot sell our conscience. You cannot support every government that comes to power without ever finding anything wrong. That is not right," he added.
Wike assured that Rivers State has benefited significantly from the Federal Government due to its support for the Tinubu administration and promised more gains in the future.
The visit was met with strong declarations of loyalty. The council chairman, Owolobi Ofori, assured Wike of the people's solid support. Former lawmaker Prof. Henry Ogiri praised Wike's "talk-and-do" style, while former Minister of State for Environment, Udi Odum, said stakeholders were united behind Wike and the Tinubu project. A former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Ukel Oyakiri, pledged the full support of the area's women for the minister ahead of 2027.
