Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he has no regrets supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since 2022, insisting that his stance did not change before, during, or after the 2023 presidential election.
Gatekeepers News reports that Wike made the statement at a special event held in Abuja to mark his 58th birthday, according to a statement issued on Saturday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
He said his political choices have always been driven by character and integrity, adding that he never hid his support for President Tinubu at any point.
Wike recalled that ahead of the 2023 election, he was the only prominent figure from the main opposition party who openly declared support for Tinubu, explaining that the decision was based on equity, fairness, justice, and his belief that power should rotate to the South.
The Minister said his leadership strength was evident in Rivers State during the elections, noting that while the All Progressives Congress won the presidential poll, Peoples Democratic Party secured victories in National Assembly, governorship, State House of Assembly, and local government elections under his watch.
The birthday gathering, which took place in the early hours of Saturday at his residence, drew political leaders from different parties who came to celebrate the former Rivers State Governor and his political influence.
Among those present were serving and former National Assembly members from Rivers State, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, local government chairmen, friends, and political associates.
Several speakers praised Wike, describing him as an achiever and skilled politician whose impact is felt across the country, while assuring him of continued support.
Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former PDP chairman, Ambassador Desmond Akawor, described the Minister as the “naked wire” of Rivers politics, adding that Wike’s performance showed that President Bola Tinubu made the right choice by working with him.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, who led 27 lawmakers to the event, thanked Wike for being a dependable leader and pledged the Assembly’s loyalty to him.
Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government and Rivers State ALGON, Hon. Allwell Ihunda, also praised Wike, describing him as consistent and compassionate.
Other speakers at the event included Mohammed Abdulrahman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Chief Dan Orbih, Hon. Victor Giadom, Dr Okieze Ikpiazu, Senator Sandy Onor, Senator Magnus Abe, Senator George Sekibo, Senator Bari Mpigi, and others.
Responding, Wike thanked his supporters for standing by him over the years and acknowledged their role in shaping his leadership path.
He said he finds fulfilment working with his people and promised to continue partnering with them in the interest of Rivers State and the country.
Wike added that criticism and insults have never discouraged him, noting that he has never been bothered by those who attack him.
