Wike vows unshakable loyalty to Tinubu in Rivers, rejects latecomers to Renewed Hope Agenda

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that no force in Rivers State can dislodge him and his supporters from backing President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 reelection bid.

Speaking during a “thank you” visit to Port Harcourt City Local Government Area on Saturday, Wike reminded supporters of their pivotal role in delivering Tinubu’s 2023 victory against stiff odds. He warned against opportunists now eyeing the political dividends, vowing to protect their frontline status.

“In 2023, we led the struggle here. We were members of the Renewed Hope Agenda from the very beginning and that was when we took the decision to support Tinubu.

“Now, those who were not there then, who went and supported Atiku Abubakar and refused to give him even 10 per cent votes are now coming that they want to lead the Renewed Hope Agenda. Is it possible?

“You were not there from the beginning. You didn’t go to buy the pepper, you didn’t go to buy the salt, and you didn’t go to buy the oil.

“You did not participate in all these things. Suddenly, food is done; you now jump in and want to be the one to eat first. Is that possible? Nobody in this state can push us out,” he said.

Wike dismissed distractors, urging unity among his base to secure Tinubu’s second term. “These are the foot soldiers of the Renewed Hope Family. If there is one state that the President knows he can go home and sleep with his two eyes closed, it is Rivers State,” he added. He promised 2026 would surpass 2025, calling for sustained teamwork.

Earlier, Port Harcourt Mayor Sir Allwell Ihunda praised Tinubu for upholding democratically elected council chairmen and hailed Wike’s eight-year governorship for transformative projects. “We are ready for your directives on what to do in 2027. As soon as the directive comes, we will step into action,” Ihunda affirmed.

Blessing Amadi, representing Port Harcourt II Federal Constituency, lauded Wike for elevating women as vice chairmen across all LGAs. “This is the only state in the country that has given women so much recognition and we applaud you for this,” she said.

State Assembly member Smart Adoki, for Port Harcourt II, thanked Wike for the bold 2023 support of Tinubu, noting Rivers residents now enjoy the rewards. He pledged unwavering loyalty, insisting Wike offers the most for the people.