Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has issued a stark warning to candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly those eyeing governorship positions, that they must be ready to wrestle for power. According to the former Rivers State governor, no one gives power freely, and those who seek it must be prepared to fight for it.
Wike made this declaration on Thursday, June 25, 2026, while addressing PDP candidates at the party's national secretariat in Abuja during the presentation of certificates of return. The minister, who currently serves under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, recalled his own electoral battles, noting that his local government election was contested all the way to the Supreme Court.
Wike's Statement and Call for Determination
In his address, Wike emphasized the need for resilience and determination in politics. He stated, "For me, nobody gives power, and nobody will dash anyone's power. Whoever is seeking power must be ready to struggle for it." The remarks were shared on his official social media page, sparking widespread reactions from Nigerians.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians
The minister's comments have drawn diverse responses from the public. Some praised his straightforwardness and performance as FCT minister, while others expressed concerns about the potential for political violence. Sir Adama commended Wike, saying, "All these people talking evil about Wike, sometimes I wonder: does Wike even know them? Has he done bad to you in person? Why do you people hate good and love lies and hypocrisy in Nigeria? Let's learn to be honest. Nyesom Wike is trying."
Ogunka Webilor raised local issues in Rivers State, urging politicians to address unpaid salaries before campaigning. He said, "Please tell Chidi Lloyd to pay Emohua council staff their ten salaries, campaign is lurking by the corner, politician will be stoned at Emohua LGA, APC government cannot deny us salaries and still campaign in our LGA, they won't have our votes!"
Emeh Benjamin expressed a combative stance, warning of a fierce battle in 2027: "As you said, nobody gives power but takes it. We, the ordinary people of Nigeria, will cripple you in 2027. That violence that you sabi, we will give you and your thugs fire for fire. We won't mind losing our lives to liberate Nigeria from demons like you. Your time will be up by 2027."
Jakes, however, praised Wike's performance as FCT minister, stating, "Every Governor in Nigeria should be taking notes from this man. Wike is a leader every sane society should be praying for. He derives joy in working for the people. If FCT continues to have the likes of Hon. Wike, in the next 20 years, the city should be competing with Dubai."
Wike's Previous Criticism of Peter Obi
In a related development, Wike had earlier criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) for the 2027 election, for lacking political courage. During an interview on June 1, 2026, Wike argued that leadership requires confronting and solving existing problems. He referenced Obi's political trajectory from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the PDP, Labour Party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), and now the NDC as evidence of indecisiveness.
Wike's latest declaration underscores the intense political maneuvering expected ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the PDP seeking to reclaim power from the APC. His call for a fierce struggle highlights the high stakes and potential for a contentious electoral contest.
