The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that political divisions in Rivers State had been effectively bridged, insisting that there are no longer “no-go areas” as stakeholders unite to move the state forward.
Wike made the assertion on Saturday during his thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, southern Nigeria.
Wike commended the people of Okrika for their renewed unity, loyalty and support, describing the moment as a turning point in the state’s political journey.
“I believe in you, and that belief will take you places. As the professor said earlier, we used to have some problems, but today everyone is working together. That means there is no longer any no-go area.”
The former Rivers governor stressed that the emerging political alignment in the state transcends party lines, describing it as a collective commitment to a shared vision.
According to him “We are not talking about party here; we are talking about the Renewed Hope family,. All of us have decided that we are going to work together. There is no discussion about that. That is why we must take decisions. Of course, we will not make the mistake we made last time. We are here to correct that mistake.”
Wike also dismissed critics who, according to him, consistently underestimate the political strength of his supporters, saying that total mobilisation, not token support, would be delivered when it matters most.
“Some people say, they can only deliver two to ten percent.’ So what is political advantage?” he asked.
Wike explained further that, ” We will do all we can to ensure we give the total support required.”
In a sharp rebuttal of personal attacks, the FCT minister defended his educational and professional credentials, describing attempts to discredit him as the handiwork of political opponents who lack electoral value.
“Someone once said the Minister of the FCT is semi-illiterate, yet that same person dropped out of university. I went to university, studied Law, went to Law School, returned, and today I am a Life Bencher. I have the fourth highest national honour, the CON”, he
He added that political relevance is determined at the polls, not through name-calling.
“That same man does not know how to win elections. He contested and failed. sabotaged the party and it lost at the tribunal. But I contested and won twice,” he said.
Wike further recalled his record in public office, insisting that his achievements as chairman, Minister, governor and now FCT minister remain verifiable.
“In politics, when people cannot do what you are doing, they start calling you all kinds of names. I am not worried. Anybody can go and check the records”, he added
Addressing allegations that he masterminds political and legal troubles for opponents, Wike dismissed the claims as diversionary tactics.
“The bauchi state governor said I was the one masterminding things. He forgot that in 2016, he refused the EFCC and was prosecuted. Was that also me?” he asked,
Explaining the purpose of his visit, Wike described it as an endorsement of the people who stood by him through difficult times.
“I came to say thank you. This is my endorsement. I know you will never abandon me”, he stated.
He warned against overreliance on money and political noise, stressing that consistency, organisation and leadership remain the keys to success.
The minister praised the people of Okrika for reclaiming their local council and urged leaders to embrace inclusive governance, dialogue and engagement at all levels.
“Someone who cannot relate with a council chairman, assembly members or National Assembly members, what kind of leadership is that?” he queried.
Wike also expressed appreciation to women in the area for their support and turnout, assuring them of continued engagement.
“To our mothers, I thank you for dressing gorgeously and coming out, We will not take your support for granted. We will continue to work with you”, he assured them.
