The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that he has endorsed any aspirant for the forthcoming Governorship election in Rivers State.
Speaking during a pre-convention reception organised for Rivers PDP stakeholders in Abuja, Wike warned party members against being misled by social media narratives suggesting he has backed a candidate for the Rivers governorship seat.
“I have been hearing people say that I have endorsed them; it’s their business,” he said, stressing that such claims are unfounded. “Whatever you read on social media, please know that I’m not there.”
The former governor emphasized that decisions regarding the governorship race would be taken collectively with party leaders at the appropriate time.
“At the appropriate time, we will meet, look at ourselves eyeball to eyeball, and tell ourselves the truth,” he stated.
Wike also cautioned against political pressure, inducements, and external influence, insisting he would not repeat past errors in deciding who to support for the state’s top seat.
“No amount of intimidation or blackmail will make me make the mistake I made again,” he said.
He maintained that while others may choose to accept financial offers from aspirants, he would not be swayed, describing the moment as an opportunity to correct past political missteps.
“This time our eyes are open and our ears are on the ground,” he added.
On internal party processes, Wike reiterated that he does not act alone, noting that any decision on the governorship would involve consultations with key stakeholders, including party elders.
He also dismissed claims by individuals parading themselves as his allies to gain influence in the race, saying no one has exclusive access to him.
Addressing the criteria for selecting a candidate, Wike ruled out ethnic considerations, stating that the party would support a Rivers indigene who understands the state’s political history and has demonstrated loyalty and commitment.
“We will support someone who understands where we are coming from, someone who stood strong when it mattered most,” he said.
He further warned against attempts to divide the party along ethnic lines, describing such strategies as ineffective.
“You’re sending people to social media to preach ethnicity—it will not work,” Wike said.
Reacting to reports of early campaigns and heavy spending by aspirants in the governorship race, Wike suggested he remains unmoved, hinting at his political experience.
“I have been hearing that people are campaigning, spending money—don’t worry, I will teach you how to spend money,” he remarked.
He concluded by urging party members to remain cautious and attentive, warning that actions taken now could shape the future of the party and the state’s leadership.
