Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged traditional rulers in Ogba Land, Rivers State, to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, arguing that the president’s continued leadership would promote economic prosperity and development.
Wike made the appeal on Saturday during a visit to the palace of the Oba of Ogba Land, Nwachukwu Obuoha-Obi III, in Omoku, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Addressing the traditional council, the minister said that although traditional rulers were expected to remain non-partisan, political decisions had direct consequences for the welfare, security and development of their communities.
He explained that his visit was intended to engage traditional institutions and inform residents about the political choices facing the country ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to Wike, the people should carefully consider the records of political leaders rather than be swayed by campaign promises.
He urged the traditional rulers to assess Tinubu’s administration based on its economic reforms, infrastructure development and efforts to sustain ongoing projects.
The minister also referred to his tenure as governor of Rivers State, insisting that his administration delivered projects that benefited communities across the state.
Wike said his record in office demonstrated the importance of governance that produces visible results and improves people’s lives.
He also questioned the contributions of opposition politicians who had previously held prominent public offices, particularly former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who is seeking political relevance under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The minister challenged Amaechi and other former office holders to explain what they had done for Rivers State and the Niger Delta when they had the opportunity to influence federal decisions. He cited the condition of seaports in Port Harcourt, Calabar and Warri as examples of areas he believed had suffered neglect.
Wike maintained that political leaders should be judged by their achievements while in office, asking voters to consider what previous opportunities given to them had produced.
Defending the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, he acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians were experiencing but argued that addressing longstanding economic problems required time and difficult decisions.
He said the country’s economic challenges could not be resolved overnight, expressing optimism that the government’s reforms would eventually produce positive results.
Wike also cautioned the traditional rulers against supporting the presidential ambitions of Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, questioning the intentions of politicians who repeatedly contested elections without what he described as a clear vision.
The minister further called on Rivers State leaders and residents to support the ruling party across the executive and legislative arms of government, saying political alignment would strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government and improve the state’s access to development opportunities.
He urged the people to work together with the president to ensure Rivers State remained strategically positioned in national affairs.
Responding, the Oba of Ogba Land, Nwachukwu Obuoha-Obi III, assured Wike that the kingdom was united in its support for Tinubu’s leadership.
The traditional ruler said supporting the president would help advance the political interests, economic development and long-term progress of Ogba Land.
He also praised Wike’s record of project delivery and public service, noting that his performance as FCT minister had brought recognition to Rivers State.
The monarch added that Wike’s achievements had demonstrated the value of leadership built on competence, character and tangible results.
