Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed suggestions that his regular presence in Rivers State amounts to a plan to relocate from Abuja, explaining that his visits are largely driven by political considerations ahead of the 2027 general election.
Wike made the clarification while speaking during his monthly media interaction in Rivers State, where he addressed speculation surrounding his movements between the nation’s capital and his home state.
The former Rivers State governor said his decision to frequently return to the state was motivated by the need to remain connected with the people and closely monitor political developments as preparations for the next presidential election gather momentum.
According to Wike, it would be unwise for him to remain in Abuja and depend entirely on reports from political associates who might assure him that everything was progressing smoothly in Rivers State.
He stressed that being physically present allowed him to assess the situation himself, engage with his supporters and ensure that necessary political arrangements were being properly handled.
Wike maintained that his trips to Rivers should not be interpreted as an indication that he intends to abandon his responsibilities as FCT Minister or permanently move back to the state.
He explained that there was a difference between relocating and maintaining regular contact with his political base, particularly at a time when political activities were intensifying across the country.
The minister said he wanted to personally interact with residents and political stakeholders rather than operate solely from Abuja based on information supplied by others.
Wike said he needed to ask questions, follow up on ongoing activities and determine whether the necessary preparations were actually being carried out.
He noted that political associates could easily tell him that everything was under control, but he believed it was important to independently verify such claims.
According to him, his presence in Rivers State would enable him to establish what was happening on the ground and address any concerns that might arise before they became bigger problems.
Wike also rejected insinuations that his frequent visits were connected to any personal family emergency, joking that his parents were still alive.
He explained that the current political climate made it necessary for him to remain active and engaged with developments in his home state.
The minister further made it clear that he had no intention of adopting a passive approach to the 2027 presidential contest.
Although he currently serves in the administration of President Bola Tinubu, Wike has remained a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political landscape and has continued to play an active role in political discussions ahead of the next election.
Speaking about the possibility of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, emerging victorious in 2027, Wike rhetorically questioned whether he was expected to remain silent and watch events unfold.
He asked, “You want me to fold my hands for Atiku Abubakar to come and win the election?”
The statement underscored Wike’s determination to remain politically involved and monitor developments in Rivers State as the 2027 election approaches.
He insisted that his frequent return to the state should therefore be understood within the context of political engagement rather than as a decision to relocate.
Wike’s comments come as political activities and alignments continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with major political figures and parties positioning themselves for the contest.
For Wike, maintaining a strong connection with Rivers State remains essential, particularly as political stakeholders begin making strategic moves ahead of the election.
He maintained that staying informed, interacting directly with the people and monitoring political activities firsthand would help him avoid relying solely on assurances from others.
