The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong warning to governors and political leaders who support those he labels as “betrayers.” Speaking on February 7, 2024, during the inauguration of the Rivers State Renewed Hope Ambassadors headquarters in Port Harcourt, Wike suggested that aligning with disloyal individuals could lead to dire consequences, declaring that a “message from the gods” foretells a grim fate for such alliances.
Wike, a prominent political figure embroiled in a long-standing feud with Siminalayi Fubara, the current governor of Rivers State, emphasized that supporters of President Bola Tinubu in the region do not need a sitting governor’s endorsement to mobilize for the president’s re-election campaign in 2027. He stated that those endorsing political treachery would ultimately face the repercussions of their choices.
“Let me tell you one thing,” Wike warned. “Whoever is watching—whether you are a senator, a member of the House of Representatives, a minister, or a governor—if you support betrayers, people will continue to betray you in life.” He elaborated on the psychological and physical ramifications of betrayal, predicting that those who engage in disloyalty would be left speechless when they experience betrayal themselves.
Wike drew parallels to his own political experiences, noting that while it took his successor months to turn against him, those currently supporting “betrayers” might encounter betrayal from their successors much sooner. “Watch every governor who is in his second term and has ambitions to place a successor—if you support a betrayer, you will not survive it,” he cautioned.
In his address, Wike emphasized that political loyalty is not merely a strategic choice but a matter of moral and spiritual obligation. He asserted that “betrayal will follow you everywhere” for those who disregard this principle. His remarks serve as a stark reminder of the potential fallout from political disloyalty in a volatile political environment.
Reflecting on the significance of the infrastructure he inaugurated, including a radio station and a situation room, Wike stated that these facilities would serve as a base for those dedicated to President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. He characterized the ongoing political landscape as a direct reflection of past actions, reiterating the age-old adage: “You will reap what you sow.”
Wike also made it clear that the supporters of President Tinubu in Rivers State are fully equipped to mobilize independently. “We don’t need to have a governor to mobilize for Mr. President; we have all it takes to be on our own,” he asserted. He praised the efforts of the Rivers State Renewed Hope Ambassadors and their coordinator, Desmond Akawor, for their extensive grassroots mobilization throughout the state.
“I have said before that Rivers State is a no-go area, and I want to say again that this State is totally for Tinubu,” Wike declared, underscoring the commitment of local political figures to the president’s agenda. He noted that all 23 local governments and zonal coordinators have been inaugurated, signaling robust organizational efforts.
Wike’s warnings and assertions indicate a significant shift in the political dynamics within Rivers State. As the landscape continues to evolve, the implications of loyalty and betrayal may play a pivotal role in shaping the future of political alliances in Nigeria.
