FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has dismissed suggestions that his political relevance depends on his relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Wike said his influence is not tied to occupying a particular government position.
He made the statement while discussing his political future, his continued membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and his support for President Tinubu.
Wike: ‘I Can Convince My People’
Wike said political parties that cannot convince their supporters should deal with their own internal challenges.
He maintained that he was confident in his ability to communicate with his supporters.
“I can convince my people,” Wike said.
He added that his experience as a former governor had given him an understanding of what voters expect from their leaders.
According to him, a politician who understands the needs of the people can achieve significant results with their support.
Support for Tinubu
Wike also spoke about his decision to support Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election.
He said the decision was based on his political convictions.
The minister maintained that he had been open about his support and had never attempted to hide his position.
He also said President Tinubu knows about his political activities.
Wike Rejects ‘Political Interference’ Claim
The minister rejected claims that his involvement in political matters amounts to interference.
Wike said he could not simply send funds or carry out activities affecting his state without being accountable.
He argued that his position as a public official does not prevent him from remaining connected to political developments.
The minister also pointed to examples of politicians who support President Tinubu while belonging to parties outside the APC.
‘Why Should It Be a Problem?’
Wike questioned why his support for President Tinubu should become controversial when other politicians can support the President while backing candidates from their own parties in other elections.
He cited governors such as Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State as examples of politicians who support Tinubu while remaining outside the APC.
Wike argued that presidential and state elections can produce different political calculations.
‘The People Know What They Are Seeing’
Asked about his political strength beyond his relationship with President Tinubu, Wike said his relevance would not disappear simply because he no longer occupies a particular office.
He said public perception and his relationship with the people were more important.
According to him, Rivers State provides an example of how people judge political leadership.
He urged critics to look at the state’s development rather than rely only on political commentary.
Wike on the 2027 Political Landscape
The interviewer also asked whether Wike’s political future depends on building an independent political structure ahead of 2027.
Wike responded that the immediate issue was to appreciate President Tinubu for giving him the opportunity to serve.
He acknowledged that the President’s second term, if secured, would constitutionally be his final term.
However, Wike said political relevance could continue beyond a particular administration.
‘Skills and Competence Matter’
Wike also addressed the political tensions surrounding him.
He said some politicians fail to learn from others and therefore create unnecessary problems for themselves.
The minister said he had remained active despite being a minister rather than a governor.
He pointed to his visits and participation in project commissioning as examples of his continued public engagement.
Wike said political skills and competence remain important.
He added that politicians must continue learning and developing themselves.
