Unlike Fubara, Nobody Made Me Governor; I Singlehandedly Fought My Way Through – Wike Boasts

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dismissed claims that his rise to power as Governor of Rivers State was orchestrated by certain political leaders in the state. Speaking during a civic reception held in Port Harcourt for loyal politicians, Wike asserted that while he received political support, his journey to the governorship was largely a result of his personal efforts and determination.

Wike contrasted his political trajectory with that of the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, whom he claimed he personally installed as his successor. His comments come amidst an ongoing political rift in the state and the resurfacing of old videos on social media. In the videos, former First Lady Patience Jonathan is seen introducing Wike to then-Governor Peter Odili and other political figures as the preferred successor to Rotimi Amaechi, who was governor at the time.

The videos have reignited discussions around Wike’s ascent to power, particularly as he faces criticism from Odili for his handling of the state’s political crisis. Odili has openly shown support for Governor Fubara, a move Wike perceives as divisive. Wike argued that Odili, as a senior statesman, should adopt a neutral stance and mediate in the crisis rather than taking sides.

Wike recounted his political battles, stating, “To be governor of Rivers State in 2014, I fought for the party structure. I took it from Magnus Abe. Yes, I did. So, nobody can say they made me governor.” He acknowledged the support he received but rejected the notion that anyone single-handedly installed him as governor. “It would be unfair to Almighty God to say nobody supported me. You need people’s support, but no one can say they gave me the governorship,” he added.

During his rise to power in 2015, Wike reportedly benefited from the backing of former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife Patience Jonathan, and Peter Odili. Their support came during a period of political fallout between then-Governor Amaechi and the Jonathans, positioning Wike, who had previously served as Amaechi’s Chief of Staff and later as Minister of State for Education, as the preferred candidate.