The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned that joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or openly professing loyalty to President Bola Tinubu does not automatically guarantee a second-term ticket.
Wike issued the warning on Tuesday while speaking to supporters during a political engagement in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, as part of his ongoing statewide consultations.
The minister, who was welcomed by the Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, Chidi Lloyd, alongside traditional ruler Sergeant Awuse and other party leaders, used the gathering to reiterate his long-standing views on political loyalty and binding agreements.
In his address, Wike emphasised that the Ikwerre ethnic nationality must continue to maintain its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, cautioning against political complacency or marginalisation.
According to him, political relevance is achieved through deliberate strategy and consistency, not by aligning with political movements after victories have already been secured.
The former Rivers State governor warned that simply declaring support for President Tinubu, particularly after the 2023 elections, should not be viewed as an automatic route to re-election.
Wike stressed that politics should be anchored on clearly defined agreements, adding that commitments must be honoured, and noting that loyalty without structure or firm commitment offers no guarantees.
Earlier, the council chairman reaffirmed Emohua’s backing of President Tinubu and Wike, stating that the local government remained firmly aligned with their political direction.
From Emohua, the minister moved on to Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area, where he delivered a similar message. At the event, Samuel Nwanosike, Chairman of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency and former council chairman, pledged the area’s continued support for Wike, dismissing suggestions that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could gain political ground in the council.
Political observers say Wike’s engagements across Ikwerre land reflect a calculated effort to strengthen his political base, while his remarks point to possible realignments and emerging tensions ahead of the next electoral cycle in Rivers State.