The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he remains in control of the political structure in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory, describing himself as the “General Commander of the Political Infantry.”
Wike made the declaration while speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday.
The former Rivers State governor was responding to questions about the influence of an incumbent governor over the political structure in the state.
Wike dismissed the notion that sitting governors automatically have absolute control over political territories, insisting that political influence is not necessarily tied to occupying the office of governor.
“You do not need to be governor before you can be in charge. I am the General Commander of the Political Infantry; therefore, I am in charge. So also in FCT. I owe the president to give these two. As far as the election is concerned, you count FCT as a state,” Wike said.
Explaining his presence in Rivers State, Wike said his visit was primarily to reconnect with his political base and spend time with his family, but added that he would remain actively involved in political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“It’s not about relocating; it’s about coming home to reconnect with my people and talk to them, not taking chances… so that they don’t just sit in Abuja and think everything is going well,” he said.
Wike added that his visit also had personal reasons, noting that some of his parents were still alive and that he needed to spend time with them.
“Politics, of course, this is the time. You want me to fold my hand for Atiku to come and win the election?” he asked.
During the interaction, Wike also stopped journalists who attempted to bring the interview to an end, insisting that the issues he was discussing were significant.
“Sorry, don’t round up. This story is very important. Without this story, don’t round up. I’m a special person that Nigerians want to listen to,” he stated.
The FCT minister also defended his political and administrative record, referencing his tenure as Rivers State governor and the construction of 12 flyovers across the state as evidence of his capacity to deliver projects.
“I was a governor, not a governor of any other state but governor of Rivers State. People thought I just came. Before harmattan, there was cold. I didn’t just come from zero. Look, I came to FCT to prove a point that there’s nothing difficult if you want to work, and whether you agree or not, we’ve been able to change that narrative,” Wike said.
He further argued that his record had attracted criticism because of his ability to deliver results, comparing his political experience to an academic who consistently takes first position.
“That’s why you have more enemies. If you take first in class, instead of people asking how you did it, some people will say every time he’s proving, as if he’s the only one who can take first. Go and take first; let’s see. We have changed the narrative, and that’s why no party will win the president in FCT,” he added.
