By Philip Yatai
Abuja, Dec. 27, 2025
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has publicly and unequivocally pledged his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated bid for a second term in 2027. This declaration, made during a political gathering in Rivers State, signals a significant early alignment within Nigeria’s complex political landscape and underscores the enduring alliance between the former Rivers governor and the sitting President.
The announcement was conveyed by Mr. Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communications and Social Media. Wike made the pledge on Saturday while meeting with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders in Ochigba, Rivers State, following an end-of-year thanksgiving service organized by former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Chibudom Nwuche, in Ahoada East Local Government Area.
Addressing the stakeholders, Wike framed his support as a matter of political consistency and courage. He urged his supporters to continue backing President Tinubu despite what he described as ongoing “intimidation” within Rivers State, assuring them that “their struggle would not be in vain.” This rhetoric highlights the tense and often confrontational nature of Nigerian sub-national politics, where federal allegiances can trigger local political repercussions.
Contextualizing the 2023 Gamble and Its Aftermath
Wike’s speech heavily referenced the 2023 presidential election, a pivotal moment that redefined his political trajectory. He recalled openly backing then-candidate Bola Tinubu under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner, a move considered politically risky given Wike’s standing as a senior PDP figure and the challenging political climate for the APC in Rivers State at the time.
“Political courage was required in 2023,” Wike stated, noting that “many were unsure of Tinubu’s chances and feared openly supporting him.” His assertion that “early supporters were recognised after Tinubu’s victory” is a pointed reminder of the patronage system inherent in Nigerian politics, where early risk-taking is often rewarded with appointments and influence—a dynamic exemplified by Wike’s own appointment as FCT Minister despite being from the opposition party.
A Strategic Pivot Ahead of 2027
More than a simple endorsement, Wike’s remarks served as a strategic mobilization speech. He explicitly revealed that “preparations for the 2027 general elections would begin in January,” an unusually early public timeline that suggests the Tinubu campaign intends to build a formidable and early coalition. Wike positioned himself and his supporters as the bedrock of this effort in the South-South region.
His repeated emphasis on honoring agreements—”Agreement is agreement. Anything you cannot do, don’t say it”—and his assurance that “When we take a decision, Nigerians know we have taken it,” serves a dual purpose. It is both a reassurance to his political base about the reliability of his alliances and a message to the Presidency and the APC about his expectation that past and future political covenants will be respected.
Dismissing Critics and Cementing a Legacy
Wike also took aim at detractors, dismissing critics who now chant loyalty slogans by asserting that his camp acted “when it mattered most.” This narrative of being a steadfast ally during difficult times is a powerful tool for claiming moral and political authority within the pro-Tinubu coalition. His closing remark, “We are all in this till the end,” functions as a definitive closing of ranks, indicating a long-term strategic partnership rather than a temporary alignment.
This early endorsement has significant implications. It potentially weakens the PDP’s cohesion ahead of 2027 by ensuring a major faction remains aligned with the APC president. It also kickstarts the Tinubu re-election machinery, with Wike positioning himself as a key architect of the South-South strategy. The declaration transforms a routine political meeting into a major signaling event, setting the stage for the intense political realignments and campaigns that will define the run-up to the 2027 Nigerian general elections.
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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