- How Tinubu Won Rivers in 2023: Wike Credits Ikwerre People
- Wike also criticised individuals he referred to as “new supporters”
- Says Ikwerre support came at a time when many others were hesitant
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has attributed President Bola Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 presidential election in Rivers State to the decisive support of the Ikwerre people.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Wike made the claim on Sunday during visits to Emohua and Ikwerre local government areas of Rivers State as part of his Christmas outreach activities.
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According to him, when the election was still uncertain and Tinubu’s chances were widely doubted, the Ikwerre people took what he described as a political risk by standing firmly with the president, a decision he said proved decisive in Rivers State.
Wike also criticised individuals he referred to as “new supporters” who are now publicly chanting the slogan “On your mandate, we shall stand,” insisting that genuine loyalty is shown during difficult times, not after victory has been secured.
He said his political group had supported Tinubu from the beginning and that changing slogans or sudden displays of allegiance would not rewrite history.
The FCT minister stressed that the South must be allowed to complete eight years in power, irrespective of party affiliation, urging Nigerians to support Tinubu’s administration to succeed. He added that the South would decide its next political direction after Tinubu completes his second term in 2031.
Speaking to the Ikwerre community, Wike said the votes that secured Tinubu’s win in Rivers State largely came from Ikwerre areas, noting that their support came at a time when many others were hesitant.
“In 2023, when it was difficult and people were unsure Mr President would emerge, we knew politics is about taking risks. If you look at the votes that made him win in Rivers State, they came particularly from Ikwerre,” Wike said.
“When it mattered most, we stood on his mandate. Not those who are now shouting ‘on your mandate’ when everything is already settled. You take a stand when things are tough, not when food is ready,” he added.
Wike reiterated that after 2031, when the South would have completed its turn in power through President Tinubu, the region would then determine its next political move.
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