Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has explained why he is coordinating President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign in Rivers State instead of the sitting governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Speaking during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike noted that Rivers stands out as the only state where the presidential campaign is not led by the incumbent governor, attributing it to the state’s unique political landscape.
“Look, in an election, it takes a lot of leadership; there are a lot of things that are involved. You require somebody who has a buy-in,” Wike said.
The minister dismissed insinuations that Governor Fubara has been sidelined in the political structure of the state, insisting that the governor remains actively involved in the campaign at all levels.
“No, he has not been pushed aside. Of course, Fubara is fully a member, fully plays his part. If he is not a member, why do you think we are hosting meetings in his house? Do you know what it takes to host meetings of that calibre?” he queried.
Wike added that Governor Fubara’s primary focus remains keeping his political family intact and securing its future influence.