‘No Apologies’: Wike vows to support only Pro-Tinubu candidates in FCT polls

Stanley Ihedigbo

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will support only candidates who back President Bola Tinubu’s reelection, regardless of their political party, in the upcoming FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21.

Wike made the declaration on Saturday in Abuja while attending the 60th birthday celebration of Senator Sandy Onor, a veteran lawmaker and academic, describing the occasion as a celebration of six decades of scholarship, leadership, and societal impact.

Speaking passionately about the elections, the Minister said, “We have the FCT Area Council election coming up on February 21, and I have a duty to support any candidate who supports President Tinubu to win. It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate who is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology for my stand.”

Wike emphasized that his loyalty to President Tinubu transcends party lines and personal considerations, signaling a strategic focus on consolidating support for the President in the nation’s capital.

On the celebrant, Wike described Senator Onor as a credible ally, trustworthy friend, and a dependable brother, stating: “I will continue to be with you and work with you, because I know even if I am not alive today, you will not abandon my family.”

The event featured several dignitaries who paid glowing tributes to the celebrant. Prof. Anthony Eyang, while reading the citation, highlighted Onor’s journey from academia at the University of Calabar to the Nigerian Senate and Cross River State politics, calling it a life devoted to learning, leadership, and societal advancement.

Other notable attendees included Senator Philip Aduda, chairman of the planning committee, who described the celebration as a thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness in Onor’s life, and Mr. Samuel Otom, former governor of Benue, who called Onor an “icon” and a man prepared for leadership.

Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), former Attorney General of the Federation, praised Onor as courageous and intelligent, while Prof. Dave Imbua unveiled a Festschrift, a book of scholarly contributions in Onor’s honor, sponsored with N50 million by Wike and associates.

In his remarks, Senator Onor reflected on his 60 years, emphasizing excellence, character, and the role of divine guidance, thanking family, friends, and well-wishers for their unwavering support.

The Minister’s remarks on the elections are expected to influence political alignments in the FCT, with Wike signaling a clear strategy to mobilize support for candidates who align with the President’s agenda.