Wike Warns: Latecomers Chanting ‘On Your Mandate We Shall Stand’ Won’t Benefit Under Tinubu

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has warned that individuals who only began supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after his victory in the 2023 presidential election should not expect any political benefits.

Wike stated that suddenly aligning with the president and publicly singing the popular campaign chant, “On your mandate we shall stand,” would not earn such supporters any favour. He stressed that genuine loyalty is proven during difficult times, not after success has been achieved.

Speaking on Sunday while addressing stakeholders in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, the former Rivers State governor explained that his support for Tinubu predated the 2023 election, even when the outcome was uncertain. He noted that his belief in Tinubu’s leadership informed his decision to back him at a critical period.

Wike further disclosed that voters from the Ikwerre ethnic group played a decisive role in Tinubu’s victory in Rivers State, adding that the same level of support would be repeated in the 2027 general election. He emphasized that political agreements must be respected, insisting that loyalty to commitments remains paramount.

The minister reiterated that he was among the first leaders within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to openly advocate that the presidency should remain in the South for a full eight-year term, regardless of party differences. According to him, such a stance was taken when political conditions were tough, not when it became convenient.

Wike cautioned political actors in Rivers State to remain vigilant and honour existing agreements, warning that opportunistic support would not override long-standing loyalty. He maintained that those who stood firm during challenging times should not be taken for granted by latecomers seeking relevance.