|By Chinwendu Nwani
The political atmosphere in Rivers State is set for renewed tension as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Saturday signalled a return to full-scale political activity from January 2026, raising fresh questions over the durability of the much-publicised peace deal with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Wike made the declaration while briefing stakeholders from Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas shortly after a thanksgiving service organised by the Chairman of the South-South Development Forum, Chibudom Nwuche, in Ochigba community, Ahoada East LGA.
The FCT minister used the occasion to launch a veiled attack on political actors he accused of reaping from sacrifices they did not make during the 2023 general elections, particularly in mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu.
He recalled that at the height of political tension in 2023, many individuals avoided openly declaring support for Tinubu, while he and his political allies stood firmly with the President despite the risks involved.
Wike said those now loudly professing loyalty to the President failed to show commitment when it mattered most, neither declaring support nor mobilising voters in his favour.
According to him, the strength of Tinubu’s mandate in Rivers State was secured by those who took political risks at a difficult time, not by recent converts to the President’s cause.
The minister assured his supporters that their sacrifices would not be forgotten, insisting that political rewards would reflect loyalty and commitment. He, however, declined to mention names of those he accused of benefiting from the 2023 struggle without contributing.
Reiterating his resolve to re-engage politically, Wike told his supporters that active politics would resume in January next year, a statement widely interpreted as a signal of impending political realignments in the state.
He also stressed the importance of honouring political agreements, warning that he would not participate in arrangements that could not be upheld.
Wike maintained that his political stance has always been clear and unapologetic, noting that much of the criticism against him stems from his refusal to compromise on agreements.
He reaffirmed his continued support for President Tinubu and urged his supporters not to be distracted by emerging political rhetoric.
The former Rivers State governor thanked the people of Ahoada for their loyalty over the years and assured them that there was no cause for alarm, adding that political positions would be clearly stated at the appropriate time.
The thanksgiving ceremony drew several prominent political figures, including Senators Magnus Abe, Philip Aduda, Wilson Ake and Olaka Wogu. Others in attendance were ambassador-designate Aaron Chukwuemeka, OCJ Okocha, Ferdinand Anabrabra and other party stakeholders.
