Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has publicly condemned supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who recently transitioned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Peoples Party (APP) in anticipation of the local government elections scheduled for October 5.
This criticism comes on the heels of a recent congress that bolstered Wike’s influence within the PDP in Rivers State, amid reports that Fubara has directed his followers to contest in the upcoming elections under the APP banner.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Ijaw Peoples Assembly in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike expressed his surprise over the defection of Fubara’s loyalists to the APP, questioning the commitment of these individuals to the PDP's principles and objectives.
Wike remarked, “Imagine in Rivers they are contemplating of APP. It is not about money. Money does not move. You can have all the money, but if there is no capacity, there is no capacity.” He continued to elaborate, stating that the actions of the defectors were driven by envy towards the achievements of the PDP, asserting that, “All the things you see are people envious of our growth. We have defeated them severally, and if opportunity comes again, we will defeat them.”
He further stated, “We have not started politics. When the time comes, we will play politics. Our job is politics. Tell them to keep their party ready. We will teach them what is called politics.”[/p>
In addition, Wike addressed the notion that Ijaw people were opposing him, clarifying that a few ungrateful individuals within the community were responsible for such sentiments. He explained, “They are not fighting me. I am too big. If you don’t recognize someone bigger than you, know you are sick. I am far bigger, and all of them put together cannot withstand it.”
Wike characterized the tumultuous period in Rivers as an opportunity for certain individuals to enrich themselves, claiming that these individuals perceive the state government as a lucrative market. He emphasized his resilience and dominance in the political landscape, reiterating that he remains unshaken by opposition. [/p>
Accompanying Wike at the event were notable figures such as the Petroleum Minister of State, Heineken Lokpobiri; Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri; former governors, and members of the G5, including Samuel Ortom from Benue, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi from Enugu, and Okezie Ikpeazu, among others.