The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed assertions that political leaders in Rivers State are responsible for his ascension to the governorship. While he acknowledged receiving support from certain figures, Wike firmly stated that his determination and hard work were the true catalysts for his political success.
During a civic reception for his supporters in Port Harcourt on Friday, Wike compared his political journey to that of the current governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, whom he claimed to have appointed to the position.
Wike’s comments come in response to recently surfaced social media clips featuring former First Lady Patience Jonathan introducing him to ex-governor Peter Odili and other leaders as the favoured candidate to follow in Rotimi Amaechi’s footsteps. These videos have reignited debates amid the ongoing tensions between Wike and Odili, exacerbated by the political divide between Wike and Fubara.
Expressing his discontent, Wike criticized Odili for openly supporting Governor Fubara instead of taking a more neutral, paternal approach during the state’s political turmoil.
Reflecting on his political journey, Wike stated, “You didn’t give me my position. I fought for the party’s structure to become governor of Rivers State in 2014, taking it from Magnus Abe, yes, that’s true.
“So, you cannot claim that you made me governor. I won’t comment on certain individuals, but let me be clear: I fought against you, Magnus, and Victor Giadom, to secure the party structure.
“No one can say I was handed my position. While it would be unfair to deny that I had support, it is not accurate to say that anyone gave me my governorship.”
