Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has signalled a return to intense political activity from January 2026, amid indications of renewed tension between him and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Although Wike did not mention any individual by name, his comments suggested that the understanding earlier reached between his political camp and that of the Rivers governor may be under strain following the most recent peace agreement.
The former Rivers State governor made the remarks on Saturday while addressing political stakeholders and supporters in Ahoada East, shortly after a thanksgiving service organised by former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and South-South Development Commission leader, Chibudom Nwuche.
According to Wike, he and his allies would “resume full politics” in January, stressing that political agreements must be honoured without deviation.
“You know me. An agreement is an agreement. If there is something you cannot do, do not say it. Nobody can use us to say yes today and turn around tomorrow,” he said.
Wike questioned the sudden emergence of political actors loudly professing loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, particularly those now chanting the slogan, “On your mandate we stand.”
He asked where such voices were during the uncertainty of the 2023 general elections.
He reassured his supporters that there was no cause for concern, urging them to remain steadfast and calm, while insisting that his camp had never wavered in its support for President Tinubu.
Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Wike recalled that many politicians were reluctant to openly back Tinubu at a critical moment, noting that his political group took a firm position despite the risks involved.
“In politics, you must take a decision, whether good or bad. We took that decision and stood firm,” he said.
The FCT minister described himself as one of the most criticised politicians in the country after the President, attributing the attacks to his insistence on fidelity to political agreements.
According to him, some politicians have turned criticism of his person into a strategy for personal or financial gain, claiming that attacking him has become a shortcut to relevance.
Wike assured his supporters that their loyalty and sacrifices would not go unrewarded, adding that decisions taken by his political camp were driven by conviction rather than convenience.
“You stood firm even when you were not empowered. Remain strong. At the right time, we will speak,” he said, thanking his supporters for remaining loyal despite provocations.
He concluded by urging calm, insisting that “nothing is happening” and that all political developments would be addressed at the appropriate time.
Earlier, Nwuche commended Wike for what he described as his developmental contributions to the Ekpeye Kingdom, particularly the elevation of traditional stools in the area.
He noted that the kingdom now has seven first-class stools, compared to just one previously, attributing the change to Wike’s leadership.
Nwuche also advised leaders to use power responsibly and in the interest of the people, adding that Wike’s supporters remained loyal because they had benefited from his leadership.
