The Paramount Ruler of Emohua Kingdom in Rivers State, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has declared the unwavering loyalty of his domain to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, promising to follow his political lead without hesitation.
Awuse, who also chairs the South-South Monarchs Forum, made the declaration on Monday during Wike’s special Christmas visit to the Rumuche community in Emohua Local Government Area.
A Pledge of Unconditional Loyalty
In a powerful endorsement, the traditional ruler described Wike as an indispensable leader and ally. “I want to put it on record: you are a man to be followed, a dependable ally, a friend of the Emohua people and our leader,” Awuse stated.
He left no room for ambiguity regarding the community’s political alignment, declaring, “Emohua owes you everything. We will not wait for you to tell us what to do when the time comes. Wherever you put your leg, Emohua Local Government will follow you.”
Commending Tinubu’s Economic Management
The monarch also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that his administration’s economic performance merits the support of Rivers people. Drawing from his background in accounting, Awuse cited positive indicators.
“From my understanding of accounting and finance, the indices are very clear. The value of the Naira has gone up, and Nigeria’s external reserves have increased to over 47 billion dollars,” he stated.
He further noted that Tinubu’s leadership had provided the enabling environment for Wike to execute transformative projects in Abuja.
Advice to Wike: Critics Are a Sign of Success
Addressing the minister directly, Awuse advised him to disregard detractors, framing criticism as an inevitable consequence of impactful leadership.
“If you expect not to have enemies, then you are a master of nobody. Only a man who is doing well is spoken about,” the monarch said.
He praised Wike’s tradition of annual end-of-year visits to appreciate his people, calling it a mark of gratitude and strong leadership, and thanked him for his consistent interventions in Emohua’s affairs.
Consolidating a Political Fortress
This public declaration by a key traditional ruler in Rivers State represents a significant consolidation of Wike’s grassroots support base. It comes just days after the minister himself warned that political power in Rivers “is not for dash” and must be earned through loyalty and credibility.
The monarch’s pledge to follow Wike “wherever” he goes adds substantial traditional authority to Wike’s political machinery, strengthening his position as the central figure in Rivers politics as alignments for the 2027 elections begin to take shape.
