Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has claimed that all political parties in Rivers state have merged to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.
He made the remarks on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Asari-Toru Local Government Area of the state.
Wike described the coalition as part of the “renewed hope family,” which he said now encompasses all political formations in Rivers.
The former governor of Rivers State explained that the coalition represents a shift from party-centric politics to a unified movement aimed at advancing the state’s interests.
“In Rivers, we don’t have any party now. What we have is the renewed hope family. It’s a rainbow coalition,” he said.
He added, “If you don’t belong to this family, then forget it. After delivering President Tinubu, this family will produce everything as far as the state is concerned — governorship and assembly seats.”
Wike stated that the people of Rivers have already started enjoying benefits from their backing of Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election.
“This year will be better than last year,” he assured the audience.
The FCT minister expressed gratitude to residents and local leaders for their loyalty to Tinubu, noting that their 2023 support involved significant risk but is now yielding results.
“Continue on this track, and you will continue to reap good results. I assure you that I will stand with you at the appropriate time,” he said.
Since last month, Wike has been visiting several LGAs in Rivers, often criticising Governor Siminalayi Fubara indirectly over his alleged breach of an earlier agreement.
He accused Fubara of reneging on commitments they made before Tinubu lifted the emergency rule in the state.