Nigeria Knows My Position’ — Wike Breaks Silence On Tinubu Support

The former Rivers State governor made the clarification while responding to remarks attributed to the incumbent governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, who had implied that certain political actors were involved in covert alliances. Speaking during an end-of-year media interaction in Port Harcourt on Monday, Wike maintained that there was nothing secretive about his backing of President Tinubu, stressing that his position was well known long before the 2023 general elections.

He argued that claims of “corner-corner” support were illogical, noting that he had consistently and openly declared his political choices. Wike recalled that his stance had previously attracted criticism and strong reactions from members of his former party, the Peoples Democratic Party, a development he said further proved that his allegiance was never hidden.

The minister explained that his approach to politics is rooted in consistency and respect for agreements rather than expediency, adding that a failure by politicians to keep their word was one of the reasons public trust in leadership often erodes. He said he was determined not to fall into that category, emphasising that once he declares his position, he stands by it.

The renewed debate follows recent political shifts in Rivers State, particularly Governor Fubara’s defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress earlier in the month after a private meeting with President Tinubu in Abuja. The move has been widely interpreted as part of broader strategic realignments ahead of future political contests.

During the inauguration of the extended dualisation of the Ahoada–Omoku Road on December 10, Governor Fubara publicly pledged his support for President Tinubu, encouraging supporters to do so openly and even unveiling a new praise song in the president’s honour.

Wike also responded to reports of political tension in the state, including allegations that he had interfered in meetings involving the governor and the State House of Assembly. While acknowledging the existence of disagreements, he said he had played a conciliatory role by facilitating dialogue among key political actors to ensure stability.

He cautioned political leaders against taking internal disputes to the public space, urging them to handle sensitive matters with maturity. While conceding that disagreements were inevitable in politics, Wike dismissed suggestions of an all-out political conflict in Rivers State, describing the situation as normal political friction rather than open hostility.