The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned that political opponents in Rivers State will be confronted with electoral strength, declaring that Obio/Akpor Local Government Area possesses the power to “punish” those who undermine its political relevance.
Wike also dismissed calls for his removal from office, stressing that only the President has the constitutional authority to appoint or remove him.
The minister made the remarks on Sunday during a thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where he addressed party leaders, traditional rulers, women, and youths.
According to PUNCH Online, Wike has been touring the 23 local government areas of Rivers State to appreciate residents for their support in the 2023 general elections and to canvass continued backing for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.
Addressing the gathering, Wike said politics must be driven by interests rather than emotions, adding that power is not freely given but forcefully negotiated.
“There is no sentiment, there is no emotion. Politics is an interest; the interest of your people. Power is not given; we struggle for it. After all, if Donald Trump did not have power, would he go to Venezuela to pick a president? He wouldn’t. Because he has power, that’s why he can act,” Wike said.
“So for the people of Obio/Akpor, we have the power to dictate who becomes governor. All these people commenting from the sidelines, ask them if their local government, which produced only 5,000 votes, can challenge one that produced 40 per cent of the votes? Let us see how it will work.
“We will use our strength to punish them. Nobody has become governor in this state without Obio/Akpor making the pronouncement. Nobody has become the senator of Rivers East without Obio/Akpor deciding. So, if you like abusing us, after abusing us, come and look for the votes—and we will punish you with the votes.”
The former Rivers State governor also brushed aside demands for his removal, saying such calls were misplaced.
“Don’t bother about people who say ‘sack him.’ If my appointor believes I cannot offer anything again, he has the right, not that you should tell him. I am proud that the people of Obio/Akpor, the people of Rivers State, and Nigerians know we have not disappointed them in the FCT,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Gift Worlu, described Wike as a major political asset to the council, the state, and the country. He commended Wike’s performance in previous public offices and pledged the council’s loyalty.
“When it comes to who should be President of Nigeria in 2027, we know where to go. As for the governorship of Rivers State, we know where not to go. We will not go the way of ingratitude, disappointment, or disloyalty,” Worlu said.
Also speaking, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, reaffirmed the legislature’s support for Wike and President Bola Tinubu
“On behalf of the RSHA, we assure you of our prayers and support as you continue to support Mr President. Don’t bother about detractors. The real people of Nigeria know your worth. They know you are helping the President deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Amaewhule said.
The visit comes amid renewed political tension in Rivers State, as the Rivers State House of Assembly recently initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, over alleged gross misconduct.
The development marks another escalation in the prolonged political crisis in the state following the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike.
