The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong rebuke to politicians who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, declaring that they cannot assume 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 criticise the influx of former political rivals into the APC. He argued that their late entry into the party does not grant them any authority over its affairs in the state.
"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?" he questioned the gathering.
Asserting Early Stakes in Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda
The minister emphasised his early and deliberate support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, positioning himself and his allies as the original architects of the 'Renewed Hope' agenda in Rivers State.
"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," Wike declared, underscoring his foundational role.
He further drew from his extensive political experience, referencing a court ruling from 1999 to illustrate the principle that political relevance must be earned from the start of any endeavour. "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," he added pointedly.
Political Tensions and a Firm Stand in Rivers
Wike's comments come amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State. The context includes Governor Siminalaye Fubara's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC and the subsequent initiation of impeachment proceedings against him by the state assembly over delays in presenting the 2026 budget.
In a firm declaration of his political strength, Wike asserted that no one could undermine his influence in the state. "Nobody in this state can push us out. We have led this war from 2023 and never reneged despite the threats," he vowed.
The FCT Minister has been actively campaigning against Governor Fubara's re-election bid. He has also accused the governor of failing to honour a peace agreement that was signed before the lifting of the state of emergency in Rivers State, further complicating the political landscape.
