The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that he has not endorsed any candidate for the 2027 governorship election or any other political office in Rivers State.
Wike emphasised that the responsibility for selecting candidates rests with the state’s Elders Council, led by Ferdinand Alabraba, adding that no individual has the authority to impose candidates on the people.
“I have not endorsed anybody for any position. That responsibility belongs to the elders, and they will meet and decide,” he said.
The minister, however, reaffirmed his political alignment with Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that his current focus remains supporting the President.
“My only commitment for now is to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I have never hidden that,” Wike declared.
He made the remarks on Monday night during a joint meeting of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
Addressing concerns over the political direction of Rivers State, Wike warned aspirants against attempts to impose candidates, noting that voters in the state would resist such moves.
“No governor can impose a candidate on Rivers State. The mistakes of the past will not be repeated,” he said.
He also acknowledged the role of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, describing its actions as central to ongoing political developments.
Wike urged members of the emerging cross-party coalition to remain united and focused on the broader interests of the state, cautioning against divisions driven by personal ambition.
“Our strength today is not because of money, but because we are united and committed,” he noted.
He further alleged that external forces were attempting to destabilise the coalition due to its growing influence, warning that such efforts would not succeed.
The minister also expressed disappointment with some beneficiaries of political appointments who, according to him, have turned against the group’s leadership, describing their actions as a “failure of character.”
Reiterating his stance, Wike dismissed claims of secret endorsements, maintaining that the only recognised endorsement at present is for the presidency.
He commended council chairmen, elders, and party leaders for fostering inclusiveness and coordination, adding that the absence of major complaints reflected the success of the stakeholders’ meeting.
