Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has openly declared himself a political “asset” to President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign, pledging to lead efforts to secure Rivers State for the president.
Speaking during a live media chat on Monday, Wike doubled down on his support for Tinubu, stating that despite lingering tensions within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), he remains a political force to reckon with in the South-South region.
“I’m not a liability. I’m an asset,” Wike said emphatically. “Whether anyone agrees or not, I will lead the campaign in Rivers. He didn’t even get 10% here before, but he will win now.”
His statement comes amid speculation about his political future and growing internal discord within the PDP. While Wike maintains that he has not left the party, he was unequivocal about his support for the president, insisting that the South must continue to produce the presidency.
When questioned about rumours that he might run against Tinubu in 2027, Wike brushed them aside: “Are you not aware I’m the one leading the campaign in Rivers? Do you still want me to say it out loud?”
Turning his attention to former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, Wike didn’t mince words. Reacting to Amaechi’s recent remarks at his 60th birthday event—where he said, “We’re all hungry,” and criticized the current administration—Wike accused him of seeking relevance and power under the guise of political commentary.
“You were in office for years—Speaker, Governor, Minister—but never complained about hunger,” Wike said. “Now you’re hungry because you’re out of power. That’s not hunger; that’s desperation.”
He also criticized Amaechi’s track record, questioning his ability to influence electoral outcomes. “He couldn’t produce a successor as governor, failed to deliver Rivers to Buhari, and backed Atiku in 2023 without securing even 10% of the vote. What influence are we talking about?”
On the PDP’s internal struggles, Wike acknowledged the crisis but refused to accept blame or be pushed out. “You’re not the one to tell me to leave the party,” he asserted. “Some people want to kill the PDP, but we won’t let it happen. That’s why we fight from within.”
Wike further pointed to the party’s recent electoral setbacks in Delta and Akwa Ibom states as a sign of weak leadership. He criticized the apparent inaction by party leaders and stressed the need for reconciliation rather than exclusion.
Despite questions about his loyalty and future ambitions, Wike maintained that his current focus is to ensure that the South retains the presidency, with Tinubu at the helm for a second term.
“People may not like me, but their opinions don’t change the facts. I’m committed to delivering victory in 2027,” he said.
