Wike Denies Endorsing Any Candidate For Rivers Elections

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has declared that he has not endorsed any individual for future political contest in Rivers State, as such decisions remain the responsibility of party elders.

Wike stated this while addressing a joint gathering of stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.

Wike cautioned against the rush for endorsements and warned of the internal divisions that personal ambitions can create.

The Minister emphasized that the group’s current political strength was built on unity and commitment rather than financial influence.

He warned that external forces are actively seeking to divide the stakeholders because of their successful collaboration.

“If we were not working together, if we were not united, it would be difficult. People are not happy that we are working together, so they will do anything to ensure we are divided,” Wike stated.

Wike expressed disappointment in certain individuals who, after benefiting from appointments facilitated by the group, have turned around to criticize its leadership.

He described such behaviour as a failure of character and warned that those attempting to upstage others through deceit would not succeed.

“Woe be unto the person who, after being given an appointment, turns around to castigate the leadership,” he said, adding that many who once sought his mentorship can no longer look him in the eye.

Clarifying his position on upcoming political activities, Wike dismissed rumours of private endorsements for local offices, insisting that his public and private positions remain consistent.

He maintained that the only endorsement currently recognized by the group is for the Presidency, noting that the group has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Anything I say at night is exactly what I will say during the day.”

He reiterated that he has not endorsed any candidate at the state level for either the PDP or APC and will not do so until party elders convene to make such decisions.

He commended the Council Chairmen, Rivers elders, and the leadership of both parties for their coordination in bringing stakeholders together, noting that the absence of complaints about inclusiveness was a testament to the success of the meeting.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji