PORT HARCOURT – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has thrown down the gauntlet to his supporters across Rivers State, directing them to deliver their polling units, wards, constituencies and local government areas for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Wike gave the charge on Saturday during the Rainbow Coalition luncheon for political candidates in Port Harcourt, declaring that elections are won through grassroots mobilisation and not by media appearances or television commentaries.
The former Rivers State governor unveiled what he called “Operation Deliver Your Polling Unit,” urging members of the coalition to take responsibility for securing votes in their respective areas.
“Operation Deliver Your Polling Unit. Operation Deliver Your Ward. Operation Deliver Your Constituency. Operation Deliver Your Local Government. That is where elections are won,” Wike said.
He insisted that every political leader must be able to account for votes from his or her area, stressing that the real test of political strength lies at the grassroots.
According to him, frequent appearances on television cannot substitute for hard work at the polling unit level.
“If you like, appear on television every day, it will not give you votes. What gives you votes is going to your polling units, mobilising your people and delivering results,” he stated.
Wike maintained that Rivers people have every reason to support Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing what he described as unprecedented benefits enjoyed by the state under the current administration.
He argued that within three years, Rivers State had received more federal attention, appointments and development projects than it got under several previous administrations.
“Compare what Rivers State has benefited from 2023 till now with what it got under past governments. Tell yourselves the truth. We have no choice but to continue supporting Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
The FCT Minister praised Tinubu for recognising and supporting Rivers State, saying the people must reciprocate the gesture through massive electoral support in 2027.
Wike also used the occasion to extend an olive branch to politicians who had parted ways with his political camp, urging them to return and join hands in advancing the state’s political interests.
“I forgive everybody. Those who left should come back home sincerely. Let us work together for the progress and development of Rivers State,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the strength of the Rainbow Coalition, Wike described the alliance as the dominant political force in Rivers State and predicted victory for its candidates in future elections.
He said unity, grassroots mobilisation and commitment to the coalition’s objectives would guarantee success at the polls and ensure continued support for President Tinubu’s administration.
