Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he has not endorsed any candidate for the 2027 governorship election or any other political office in Rivers State, insisting that such decisions rest with the state’s elders.
Wike said the responsibility of choosing candidates lies with the Elders Council led by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, stressing that no individual has the authority to impose candidates on the state.
“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 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“My only commitment for now is to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I have never hidden that,” Wike stated.
He spoke 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 about the state’s political direction, Wike warned aspirants against relying on imposition, noting that Rivers voters would resist such moves.
“No governor can impose a candidate on Rivers State. The mistakes of the past will not be repeated,” he said.
Wike also acknowledged the role of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, describing its actions as pivotal to ongoing political developments in the state.
He urged members of the emerging coalition across party lines to remain united and focused on the collective interest of Rivers 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.
The minister further alleged that external forces were working to destabilize the coalition due to its growing influence.
“If we were not working together, it would be difficult. People are not happy that we are united, so they will do anything to divide us,” he said.
Wike also expressed disappointment with some beneficiaries of political appointments who have turned against the group’s leadership, describing such actions as a “failure of character.”
He warned that attempts to gain political advantage through deceit would not succeed.
Reiterating his stance, Wike dismissed claims of secret endorsements, maintaining that the group’s only recognized endorsement at the moment is for the presidency.
He commended council chairmen, Rivers elders, and leaders of both parties for fostering inclusiveness and coordination, noting that the absence of complaints reflected the success of the stakeholders’ meeting.
I’ve not endorsed any candidate, Rivers elders will decide – Wike
