Nyesom Wike says Rivers State must back President Bola Tinubu in 2027. The FCT Minister made this clear on Saturday in Port Harcourt.
Wike spoke at a luncheon hosted by the Rainbow Coalition. The event honoured candidates running for governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly seats.
He pointed to federal appointments and development projects the state received. According to him, Rivers has gained more under Tinubu than under previous administrations.
"Since 2023, look at how much Rivers State has gained from this administration compared to what it received from past governments," Wike said. He urged residents to compare the benefits themselves.
The former Rivers governor stressed that voters should reward leaders based on performance. Ethnic and sectional feelings shouldn't drive political choices, he argued.
"President Tinubu has shown great appreciation to the people of Rivers," he noted. "We have to continue supporting him."
Wike warned his supporters against relying on media campaigns alone. Elections are won at the grassroots level, he insisted.
"Television will not give you votes," the minister said plainly. "To get votes, you need to go to your polling units, which are in your wards and local governments."
He called on supporters to strengthen their presence in polling units and wards. Local government structures matter most during elections, he emphasized.
Wike expressed confidence in the Rainbow Coalition's electoral prospects. He invited ambitious politicians to join the group regardless of their past positions.
"If you want to be a governor, senator, member of the House of Representatives, or councillor, come and be part of our group," he said. The coalition, he promised, offers room for all sincere hands.
On security concerns, Wike was firm and direct. He warned that no one should mistake Rivers' peaceful nature for weakness.
"The people of Rivers are calm and peaceful, but no one should mistake our peaceful nature for weakness," Wike said sharply. "No one can come here and take what belongs to our people."
He called on estranged politicians to return to the coalition. Reconciliation and cooperation remain possible for those willing to work together, he assured.
"I am taking this opportunity to forgive everyone," Wike declared. "Come back home with a sincere heart, and let us work together to move Rivers State forward."
Leadership quality should be measured by competence and dedication to service. Wike rejected the idea that a leader's origin or religion matters most.
"It doesn't matter where a leader comes from," he concluded. "What matters is that the person will not disappoint us for supporting him."
