Wike Pledges Rivers Political Stability Ahead of 2027

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has told residents of Rivers State that the political mistakes of the past will not be repeated as the country prepares for the 2027 elections. Speaking during a visit to Gokana Local Government Area, Wike met political leaders, stakeholders and supporters from across party lines to thank them for their support and to press for continued unity under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Wike Rivers political stability

Wike said his visit was an expression of gratitude for the backing the state gave during what he described as a turbulent period around the 2023 general elections. He argued that the backing of President Tinubu had helped restore stability at grassroots level, reclaiming councils that were previously affected by crises and creating space for more effective governance.

“I told my friends that it would be unfair to approach 2026 without first coming back to thank you for the support you gave us during the turbulent period,” Wike told the gathering on Tuesday. Using a biblical analogy, he underlined the importance of appreciation in leadership, saying gratitude encourages continued support.

He highlighted the completion of the Bodo–Bonny Road as a tangible demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to delivering projects that had been abandoned for decades. The road, Wike said, was evidence that the President values the support Rivers State offered during the 2023 election cycle.

Wike also appealed for an end to the entrenched political divisions that previously impeded development. “Before now, Rivers State experienced serious political divisions. Today, leaders from different parts of the state are working together. When a house is united, good things will follow,” he said, praising the emerging unity among political actors.

The minister issued a clear warning to politicians who assume that past loyalty guarantees future rewards. He insisted that support for the president would not translate into automatic party tickets, adding that political opportunities must be earned and cannot be secured by conspiracy or falsehood.

“Supporting the President does not translate into automatic tickets. No amount of conspiracy or lies can guarantee anyone a ticket,” Wike said, signalling a move towards merit and accountability in candidate selection.

The event attracted a broad cross-section of political leaders and stakeholders. The Chairman of Gokana Local Government Area, Confidence Deko, pledged continued support on behalf of the people. Chief Victor Giadom, the APC National Vice Chairman for the South-South, spoke of unity and electoral confidence, while Senator Magnus Abe described Wike as a unifying force who has helped stabilise Rivers politics.

Leaders from different political backgrounds presented food items to Wike in a ceremony that underscored the message of reconciliation and collaboration. Wike’s appeal for unity and his insistence on earned political advancement suggest a strategic effort to position Rivers State for a more stable political environment as the nation moves toward 2027.