The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has fired back at Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, over a recent comment in which the governor said that “dogs bark when they do not understand.”
Wike rejected the remark, insisting that the same “dog that barks” was instrumental to Fubara’s rise to power as governor of Rivers State.
The FCT Minister made the remarks during a thank-you visit to supporters in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State, where he addressed political leaders and loyalists.
Reacting to Fubara’s comment, Wike said the individual being referred to had stood by Fubara when others distanced themselves, stressing that his support played a decisive role in Fubara’s emergence as governor.
He also reaffirmed his political alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declaring that his camp had resolved to fully support the President and correct what he described as past political miscalculations. Wike questioned the political relevance of some figures recently aligning with Fubara, noting that they failed to deliver significant electoral value in previous elections.
In a separate response, Wike took aim at Senator John Mbata over an alleged claim that he was a “semi-illiterate.” The former Rivers State governor dismissed the allegation, stating that while Mbata could not complete his law programme, he successfully finished law school and is now a Life Bencher.
Wike further emphasized that his political structure remains solid and capable of winning future elections, including the 2027 general polls. He warned that merely laying claim to a mandate or making loud assertions does not automatically translate into electoral success.
He urged the people of ONELGA to remain united and loyal to their leaders and to continue supporting President Tinubu’s administration.
Also speaking at the event, the political leader of ONELGA, Felix Obuah, pledged the area’s unwavering support for Wike and President Tinubu. Obuah said members of the “Renewed Hope” family in ONELGA are fully mobilised and committed to working for the President’s re-election.
The event drew political leaders, stakeholders of the Renewed Hope family, and supporters of the FCT Minister from across the area.
