Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said that he has not endorsed anybody for 2027 elections in Rivers State, saying that such decisions remained within the purview of party elders.
Wike while addressing a joint gathering of All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders from Rivers State at his official residence in Abuja, Wike cautioned against the rush for endorsements and the internal divisions caused by personal ambitions.
He emphasised that the current political standing of the Renewed Hope group was built on unity and commitment rather than financial influence.
The minister warned that external forces were actively seeking to divide the ranks of the stakeholders because of their successful collaboration.
”If we were not working together, if we are 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,” he said.
Wike expressed disappointment in certain individuals who, after receiving appointments through the group’s influence, have turned around to castigate the leadership.
He described such behaviour as a failure of character and warned that those seeking to upstage others through deceit would not succeed.
”Woe be unto the person that we have given appointment who goes back to castigate,” he said, noting that many who once sought his mentorship can no longer look him in the eye.
The minister while clarifying his stance on upcoming general election, dismissed rumours of private endorsements for local offices, insisting his public and private positions remained identical.
He maintained that the only endorsement currently recognised is for the presidency, stating he has not endorsed anyone for the PDP or APC at the state level and will not do so until elders meet.
WIke, however, reaffirmed that the only person the group has officially endorsed is President Bola Tinubu, stating, “Anything I say in the night is what I will say in the daytime.”
The minister concluded by commending the local government council chairmen, Rivers Elders and the leadership of both political parties for their coordination in bringing the delegates together. He noted that the lack of complaints regarding the carrying all members along was a testament to the success of the gathering.
