Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a fiery warning to political critics and opponents, urging them to steer clear of Rivers State's internal affairs or face dire repercussions. The minister delivered this caution during a 'Thank You' visit to Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers State on Monday, January 5, 2026.
A Clear Warning to Detractors
Speaking directly to those he perceives as meddling in the state's politics, Wike used stark language. "Leave Rivers State alone. Ask those who tried it before how far they went," he declared. The former governor of Rivers State added a vivid metaphor for the potential fallout of such interference: "If you put your hand and it gets burnt, that is your concern."
He specifically called out the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru. Wike advised Basiru to first inquire from those who had previously challenged the political establishment in Rivers about the outcomes they encountered. This remark was a direct response to comments made by Basiru and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda regarding the controversy over who is the party's leader, or "001," in Rivers State. The APC officials had stated that the standard practice is for a state governor to lead the party structures in their state, a position Wike firmly dismissed.
The Uncommon Political Alliance
Wike further challenged his critics by highlighting the unique political arrangement currently in place in Rivers State. He dared anyone to demonstrate the political skill required to unite two major rival parties in a single state. "Let anyone who has the capacity to unite two major political parties in a state come out and show that it can successfully merge the APC and PDP to work together," Wike stated.
He emphasized that this coalition is not an easy feat. "If it is easy, try it and see what it takes. This is the only state where you see the two major political parties working together," he asserted. The minister stressed the urgency of correcting what he termed "mistakes" from the 2023 elections in the state, insisting it must be done "now or never" regardless of the cost.
Eyes on 2027 and Support for Tinubu
Addressing the people of Oyigbo, Wike appealed for a replication of the support he received during the 2023 elections in the upcoming 2027 polls. "There is nothing I have asked from you that you did not give me. We are not an ungrateful people. In 2023, we took a risk, and today we can see where we are, so let’s replicate it in 2027," he urged.
He also revisited the decision to support President Bola Tinubu in the last presidential election, describing it as a voluntary and strategic choice. "Nobody forced us. We took a decision, and when the challenges came, those who pushed him all ran away," Wike added, defending the political move.
Local Leaders Echo Wike's Sentiments
The event also featured strong statements from local allies. Desmond Akawor, the Ambassador of the Renewed Hope Family in Rivers State, alleged that Oyigbo has seen no meaningful development since Wike left the governorship. Speaking in the Oyigbo native language, Akawor told the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to prepare to vacate the Government House next year, claiming the people would not vote for him again.
Akawor credited Wike with liberating the area, suggesting that without his intervention, Oyigbo might have suffered regular shutdowns similar to those experienced in parts of the South-East.
Oyigbo Local Government Chairman, Okechukwu Akara Nworgu, described Wike's political decisions as timely and beneficial, assuring him of the people's continued loyalty. "For all you have done for us, we will do exactly what you ask us to do," Nworgu pledged.
This sentiment was echoed by former council chairman Gerald Oforji, who called Wike his political benefactor, and former lawmaker Chisom Dike. Dike assured that the people were united under Wike's leadership and that the perceived mistakes of 2023 would be corrected in the 2027 elections.
