Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong rebuke to politicians who recently joined the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, declaring that they cannot claim leadership of political structures he helped to build.
Wike's Culinary Metaphor for Political Opportunism
Speaking during a 'Thank You' visit to Phalga Local Government Area on Saturday, 11 January 2026, Wike used a vivid culinary analogy to dismiss the influence of new APC members. He questioned their right to lead after arriving late to the political struggle.
"You failed! You were not there from the beginning," Wike stated. "You didn't go to buy the pepper, salt, and oil. Suddenly, the food is done, you now jump in and want to lead. Is that possible?"
Asserting Early Support for Tinubu and Political Dominance
The minister emphasized his early and deliberate backing of President Bola Tinubu, positioning himself as a foundational member of the 'Renewed Hope' family. "In 2023, we led the war here. We were the Renewed Hope Agenda people. So from the beginning, we were the people of the Renewed Hope family. And that was why we decided to support Bola Ahmed Tinubu," he explained.
Drawing from his extensive political experience dating back to 1999, Wike referenced a court ruling to underscore the principle that one must be involved from the start. He warned the defectors, "How can a man who did not read Primary 1-5, jump to Primary 6? Since you came through the window, you must go out through the window."
Context: Rising Tensions in Rivers State Politics
Wike's fiery comments come amid significant political upheaval in Rivers State. The backdrop includes:
- The defection of Governor Siminalaye Fubara from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC.
- The initiation of impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara by the state assembly, citing delays in presenting the 2026 budget.
- Wike's active campaign against Fubara's re-election bid.
- Accusations from Wike that the governor failed to honour a peace agreement signed before the lifting of emergency rule in the state.
Amid these tensions, Wike made a resolute declaration of his unwavering position. "Nobody in this state can push us out. We have led this war from 2023 and never reneged despite the threats," he asserted, making it clear he views the late-coming defectors as a challenge to his political authority and legacy.
The minister's speech also included a call for continued support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, solidifying his alignment with the national ruling party while defending his local turf from what he perceives as opportunistic incursions.
