The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has stated that he has not endorsed any candidate for upcoming political contests in Rivers State, emphasizing that such decisions are the preserve of party elders.
Wike made the clarification on Monday night while speaking to a joint meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders from Rivers State at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
In a video shared on X by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike cautioned against rushing endorsements, warning that personal ambitions were causing divisions within the political group.
“I have not promised anybody support. The only commitment I have made on my behalf and you is that we are going to support President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
He highlighted that the group’s strength lies in unity and collective commitment, not financial influence, and noted that external actors were trying to create discord.
“If we were not working together, if we were not united, it would be difficult. People are not happy that we are working together, so they must find anything to make sure we are divided,” Wike added.
The minister also expressed frustration with individuals who, after benefiting from appointments facilitated by the group, turned to criticise its leadership.
“Woe be unto the person that we have given an appointment [who] goes back to castigate,” he said, noting that many who once sought his mentorship now avoid facing him directly.
Regarding upcoming local political activities, Wike dismissed claims of private endorsements, reiterating that he has not endorsed any candidate for either the PDP or APC at the state level. He said he will only do so after party elders meet to take a collective decision.
He added that the only endorsement currently recognised by the group is for President Bola Tinubu and reaffirmed his commitment to transparency: “Anything I say in the night is what I will say in the daytime.”
