We Supported Tinubu When It Was Risky – Wike Reaffirms Loyalty

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has once again affirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declaring that the support he and his political allies gave during difficult times will not change now that the political climate is more favorable.

Wike explained that during the 2023 presidential election, openly backing Tinubu in Rivers State was neither popular nor safe for many politicians. According to him, the political environment at the time discouraged public endorsement, as uncertainty surrounded the outcome of the election.

Despite these risks, Wike said his political camp made a deliberate decision to stand firmly with Tinubu when many others chose silence.

He emphasized that true political commitment is proven during challenging moments, not after victory has already been secured. In his words, standing by Tinubu when the situation was tough was a conscious choice, and that loyalty would continue now that the pressure has reduced.

Wike made these remarks on Saturday in Ochigba, located in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State, while addressing members and leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a stakeholders’ meeting.

The FCT Minister was also present at an end-of-year thanksgiving service organized by a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, which took place in his hometown.

During his address, Wike encouraged his supporters not to be intimidated or disheartened by political pressure, assuring them that their sacrifices and loyalty would not go unrewarded.

He pointed out that individuals who genuinely supported Tinubu before the election are widely recognized, unlike those who only became vocal after the president’s victory was confirmed.

Reflecting on the uncertainty of the 2023 election period, Wike stated that many politicians were hesitant to openly align themselves with Tinubu because no one could predict the final outcome. However, he stressed that politics requires courage and decisiveness, even when public opinion is divided.

According to Wike, the decision taken by his camp yielded positive results, as their backing played a role in improving Tinubu’s electoral performance in Rivers State.

He criticized those who now publicly proclaim loyalty to Tinubu, noting that they remained quiet when open support mattered the most. He questioned whether such individuals would be making those declarations today if others had not taken the risk earlier.

The minister also reaffirmed his belief in honoring political commitments, stating that agreements must be respected once they are made.

Wike warned against making promises that cannot be fulfilled, stressing that integrity and consistency are essential in political engagements. He said once an agreement is reached, it must be implemented without hesitation.

Looking ahead, Wike disclosed that full political activities would resume in the coming year and made it clear that his stance would remain the same.

He concluded by reassuring his supporters that the decision to continue backing Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firm, adding that there is no division or uncertainty about the position his political camp has taken.