Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has opened up on his decision to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying he has no regrets about the political choice he made ahead of the 2023 presidential election.
Wike spoke in Abuja in the early hours of Saturday during a special gathering held to mark his 58th birthday.
The event brought together political leaders, lawmakers and associates from different parties, reflecting his wide political reach and influence.
Addressing guests, the former Rivers State governor made it clear that his support for Tinubu was deliberate and based on conviction.
He said his decision was guided by character, integrity and a belief in equity and justice, stressing that he stood by the president before, during and after the election.
Wike recalled that he was the only prominent figure from the main opposition party who openly declared support for Tinubu at the time.
According to him, the decision aligned with the principle of power rotation to the South and his personal sense of fairness in national leadership.
The FCT minister also pointed to events in Rivers State during the 2023 elections as evidence of his leadership strength.
He noted that under his watch, the All Progressives Congress won the presidential election in the state, while the Peoples Democratic Party recorded victories in the governorship, National Assembly, State House of Assembly and local government elections.
The birthday celebration, held at Wike’s residence, attracted National Assembly members from Rivers State, serving and former lawmakers, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, local government chairmen, political allies and longtime associates.
Several speakers took turns to praise Wike, describing him as a bold leader, achiever and strategic politician whose impact cuts across party lines. They urged him to remain steadfast and assured him of their continued loyalty and support.
Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former PDP Chairman, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, described Wike as the “naked wire” of Rivers politics.
He said Wike’s political record showed that President Tinubu chose “the right product from the PDP” to work with.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, who attended the event with 27 lawmakers, thanked Wike for his leadership and guidance.
He pledged the unwavering support of the lawmakers, declaring that they would continue to stand with him politically.
Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government and Rivers State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Allwell Ihunda, described Wike as a consistent and compassionate leader who has remained committed to the welfare of his people.
Other notable figures present at the event included Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Committee, Mohammed Abdulrahman; PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; PDP National Vice Chairman (South South), Chief Dan Orbih; APC chieftain, Hon. Victor Giadom; former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu; and Senators Sandy Onor, Magnus Abe, George Sekibo and Bari Mpigi, among others.
Responding, Wike expressed gratitude to his political family and supporters for standing by him over the years.
He acknowledged their role in shaping his political journey and said he remained fulfilled working closely with his people for the progress of Rivers State and Nigeria.
He added that criticism and political attacks do not bother him, describing them as part of the process that fuels his determination.
The event concluded with special prayers offered for Wike and his family.
The article was originally published on Politics Nigeria.