The Rivers State leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has renewed its efforts to persuade the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to join its ranks.
During a one-million-man solidarity march for Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ in Port Harcourt, the APC Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tony Okocha, emphasized Wike’s significant influence in Rivers State politics. Okocha stated Wike’s political acumen and referred to him as a “political strategist who cannot be ignored,” noting his instrumental role in Tinubu’s success in the 2023 elections within the state.
“Wike is the leader of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ in Rivers State. He was responsible for Tinubu’s victory here and is a reformer with a Midas touch,” Okocha stated. “If he joins APC, it will be easier for us to secure victories for Tinubu, especially as the President seeks re-election after his first term.”
Explaining the inclusion of Wike’s picture alongside President Tinubu’s on the event’s banner, Okocha clarified, “This is not an APC event but rather an event for the President’s family in Rivers State.
Wike is a game changer, and this is one of our attempts to bring him over to the APC to help us continue winning elections for Mr. President, particularly in 2027.”
Okocha also recounted challenges faced during the 2023 campaign, noting internal party resistance and skepticism about Tinubu’s health and age.
“We were told that Tinubu was too old and medically unfit, yet he has proven to be the best thing that happened to Nigeria. It’s a process to fix the country’s setbacks, and President Tinubu started this process the day he took office,” he said.
Okocha mentioned the elimination of fuel subsidies and the subsequent financial benefits for various levels of government.
“The first and biggest project that will span the length and breadth of Nigeria is being carried out under Tinubu’s administration,” he added.
