The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu secured victory in Rivers State during the 2023 presidential election, crediting the outcome largely to the support of the Ikwerre people.
Wike made the disclosure on Sunday during visits to Emohua and Ikwerre Local Government Areas as part of his Christmas outreach activities across Rivers State.
According to the former Rivers State governor, votes from Ikwerre communities played a decisive role in delivering Rivers State to Tinubu at a time when the president’s chances were uncertain.
Wike also stated that the Southern region would determine its next political direction only after President Tinubu completes a second term in office in 2031. He stressed that the South must be allowed to complete eight years in power, irrespective of party affiliation.
The minister criticised individuals he described as “new supporters” who have recently begun chanting the slogan “On your mandate, we shall stand,” insisting that true loyalty is proven during difficult moments, not after success has been secured.
He maintained that his political camp had supported Tinubu since 2023, when the outcome of the election was far from guaranteed, and that changing slogans or late alignment would not alter the facts.
Addressing the Ikwerre people directly, Wike reminded them of the political risks they took by standing with Tinubu when many others were uncertain. He said the bulk of the votes that gave Tinubu victory in Rivers State came from Ikwerre areas, describing their support as timely and courageous.
“You take a stand when things are tough, not when food is ready,” Wike said. “When it mattered most, we stood on his mandate, not those who are shouting the slogan now.”
He added that genuine commitment means remaining firm during challenging times and urged Nigerians, especially in the South, to support President Tinubu’s administration to succeed.
Wike concluded by reiterating that after the South completes its eight-year tenure through President Tinubu in 2031, the region would then decide its next political steps.
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