January 11, 2026 l Reporter: Johnson
PORT HARCOURT — Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, on Sunday pushed back strongly against critics who have questioned his influence in his home state’s politics, declaring that he and his loyalists still control a decisive portion of the electorate and will play a key role in future elections.
Speaking to a large crowd during the grand finale of his “thank you” tour in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area widely regarded as his political stronghold Wike said politics is driven by interests, power and the will of the people, not personal emotions or sentiment. He urged detractors to allow him to pursue his political path without bitterness.
Wike stressed that his return to Obio/Akpor was motivated by gratitude, describing showing appreciation to supporters as a core leadership value. He emphasised that the people of Obio/Akpor which accounts for hundreds of thousands of registered voters — have historically influenced the outcomes of gubernatorial and senatorial contests in Rivers State.
“There is no sentiment or emotion in politics; what matters is interest… for the people of Obio/Akpor, we have the power to dictate who becomes governor in Rivers,” Wike said, asserting that even those who have criticised him in the past will still seek his bloc of votes in future elections.
He challenged critics who urge his removal from office, asserting that only President Bola Ahmed Tinubu his political ally and appointor has the authority to dismiss him if he so wished. Wike also praised Tinubu’s actions for Rivers people and expressed confidence that they would “return the favour” in the **2027 presidential election.
Supporters at the event, including political leaders such as Kingsley Chinda, Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, echoed Wike’s emphasis on the electoral significance of Obio/Akpor, noting its sizeable voting strength within the state. Others in attendance affirmed their continued loyalty and declared readiness to support political goals articulated by Wike and allied leaders.
The remarks come amid heightened political activity in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, as factions aligned with Wike, current state leadership, and national party interests prepare for intensified campaigning.