Wike Signals Return of Political Activity in Rivers by January 2026 Raises Fresh Concerns

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that political activities in Rivers State will resume fully by January 2026, a statement that has reignited tensions amid claims that a peace agreement had been reached between him and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike’s declaration has renewed speculation that the prolonged political rift in the state is far from resolved and may intensify in the coming year.

The former Rivers State governor made the remarks on Saturday while addressing party supporters and stakeholders from Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas.

He spoke shortly after attending an annual thanksgiving service organised by the Chairman of the South-South Development Forum, Chibudom Nwuche, which took place in Ochigba community, Ahoada East LGA.

Addressing the gathering, Wike left no room for ambiguity about his intentions for the new year.

“From January next year, we are moving forward. Let me be clear—we will begin politics,” he said.

The FCT minister also took a swipe at political actors he accused of benefitting from the efforts of others during the 2023 general elections without openly standing by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the time.

According to Wike, many politicians avoided public support for Tinubu when the political atmosphere was tense and uncertain.

“In 2023, it was difficult for many people to come out boldly and say, ‘Vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’” he said.

“But when it mattered most, we stood firm and declared our support. Today, the mandate is strong because of that stand.”

He credited his supporters in Rivers State for helping to consolidate Tinubu’s mandate during the election period, insisting that their loyalty made a significant difference.

Wike questioned the credibility of those who have recently begun praising the President and claiming allegiance to his administration, asking where they were when political support was most risky.

He noted that such individuals neither publicly endorsed Tinubu nor mobilised voters during the critical stages of the election.

While refraining from mentioning specific names, Wike assured his supporters that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.

On the reported peace deal in Rivers State, the minister stressed that he would only be part of agreements that could be fully honoured.

“You know my principle—an agreement is an agreement,” he said.

“If you know you cannot keep it, don’t enter into it. Whatever you agree to in the morning must still stand at night.”

He argued that many of the current political voices only emerged after the struggle had already been won.

“If we had not stood our ground then, would they be making noise now?” he asked.

Wike reiterated that he has always been transparent about his political position, adding that his insistence on honouring agreements has made him one of the most criticised politicians in the country.

He reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Tinubu, stating that he and his political allies remain fully committed to defending the President’s mandate.

The minister thanked the people of Ahoada for their continued loyalty and urged them to remain calm, assuring that further engagement would come at the appropriate time.

The thanksgiving event was attended by several prominent political figures, including Senators Magnus Abe, Philip Aduda, Wilson Ake, and Olaka Wogu.

Also present were ambassador-designate Aaron Chukwuemeka, OCJ Okocha, Ferdinand Anabrabra, and other notable stakeholders.