The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that only President Bola Tinubu has the authority to remove him from office, dismissing calls by critics demanding his sack.
Wike also maintained that political power is not handed out but earned through strategy and strength, insisting that Obio/Akpor Local Government Area remains a key political force in Rivers State.
He spoke on Sunday during a thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor, where he met with party leaders, traditional rulers, women, and youths. The visit formed part of his ongoing tour of Rivers State’s 23 local government areas to appreciate residents for their support during the 2023 general elections and to seek continued backing for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.
Addressing the gathering, Wike said politics should be driven by interests rather than emotions.
“There is no room for sentiment in politics. It is about interests—the interests of your people. Power is not given; it is fought for. If power was irrelevant, would Donald Trump go as far as Venezuela to determine leadership? Power makes action possible,” he said.
He stressed that Obio/Akpor plays a decisive role in determining political outcomes in the state, boasting of its strong voting strength.
“Those making noise from the sidelines should ask themselves if a local government that produced just 5,000 votes can contend with one that delivered 40 per cent of the votes. Obio/Akpor has always been central to who becomes governor or senator in Rivers East. Abuse us if you like, but when it is time for votes, we will respond with our strength,” Wike added.
The former Rivers State governor also brushed aside calls for his removal, insisting that such decisions rest solely with the President.
“Don’t be bothered by those shouting ‘sack him.’ If the President who appointed me feels I am no longer useful, he has the right to act. Not critics. I am proud that the people of Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, and Nigerians know that we have delivered results in the FCT,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Gift Worlu, praised Wike’s political influence, describing him as a valuable asset to the council, Rivers State, and the nation. He commended Wike’s performance across various roles, including council chairman, chief of staff, governor, and minister, and pledged the council’s continued loyalty.
Worlu also hinted at political alignment ahead of 2027, stating that the council would not support disloyalty or ingratitude in future political decisions.
Similarly, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, reaffirmed the legislature’s support for Wike and President Tinubu, urging the minister to ignore his detractors.
Amaewhule said lawmakers remained committed to backing policies that would help the President deliver on his Renewed Hope Agenda.
Wike’s visit comes amid heightened political tension in Rivers State. Last week, the Rivers State House of Assembly commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, over allegations of gross misconduct.
The Assembly accused the governor of extra-budgetary spending exceeding ₦800 billion without legislative approval, withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, demolishing the Assembly complex, and defying Supreme Court rulings on legislative autonomy. Similar allegations were also levelled against the deputy governor.
The notices, signed by 26 lawmakers, are expected to be formally served within seven days, in line with constitutional provisions.
The latest development marks a fresh escalation in the long-running political crisis in Rivers State, which began following the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike. Previous impeachment efforts in 2023 and 2025 were halted through presidential intervention, including the declaration of a state of emergency by President Tinubu.
